Ancient Godly Monarch - Chapter 275

Chapter 275: Di Feng, Emperor Azure

During the era of the Azure Emperor, the Azure Emperor Palace was the strongest transcendent power in the whole of Grand Xia. The experts within were as numerous as the clouds.

And among those experts, not everyone had Di as their surname. There were the Azure Emperor’s disciples, his loyal guardians, or even his servants. All of them formed the Azure Faction.

After the Azure Emperor Palace narrowly avoided getting destroyed, the majority of this group of people silently left, hiding in places around Grand Xia, to the extent where they changed their surnames and lived incognito. Yet despite staying in hiding, all of them had one mission—to follow once again the successor of the Azure Emperor. He who holds his token would gain control over all the branches of the ‘hidden’ Azure Faction, allowing them to rise from the ashes to the pinnacle of Grand Xia once more.

These were the ancestral teachings of the White Deer Institute.

However, their wait would stretch on for a long time, lasting over thousands of years. The loyalty of these ‘hidden’ Azure Faction branches gradually diminished with the passing of time, and now the only thing binding them are the ancestral teachings of their ancestors.

The one with the Azure Emperor Token would naturally be the successor. And back then, some of the Azure Emperor’s disciples changed their surname to Di. They were one of the most loyal groups to the Azure Emperor and the task of selecting the successor also fell to them.

The old man standing behind Di Cheng couldn’t help but exclaim in anger when he heard Bailu Yi’s suspicions. “Impudent.”

The snort of anger echoed like the crack of a whip, echoing out loud in the silent courtyard.

Yet Di Cheng merely smiled as he waved his hands. “Little Yi is still young, don’t be angry with her. Since Little Yi wishes to hear the truth, I can tell you this. Currently, the person in charge with the safekeeping of the Azure Emperor’s Token has already been captured by the Nine Mystical Palace. Perhaps, he has already confessed under torture. If that’s the case, your existence and any other branches of the ‘hidden’ Azure Faction will soon be exposed and all of you will be destroyed by our ancestor’s enemies. Hence, I need to act preemptively, uniting all the branches of the ‘hidden’ Azure Faction.”
“Our ancestral teachings stated that only the inheritor of the token would know of our location. Since the Azure Emperor Token is not in your hands, how did you know of us? Or has the main branch already gone against the original ancestral teachings?” It was then that a supreme elder from the White Deer Institute faintly interjected. Although his tone was calm, his words were filled with sharpness.

“I will explain it further to Senior in the future.” Di Cheng laughed, “The White Deer Institute is the first branch I wanted to unite, I definitely won’t mistreat the Institute. In the future, Little Yi shall be my wife and your White Deer Institute can become one of the leading powers of the ‘hidden’ faction.”

“Who says I wanted to be your wife?” Bailu Yi didn’t expect this young man to be so shameless, he actually spoke as though he were giving a great boon to her and the Institute. This level of shamelessness made her take huge breaths to calm herself, resulting in the heaving of her ample chest, causing Di Cheng’s eyes to light up.

“We will continue this discussion later, Young Master, why don’t you go take a rest first?” Another supreme elder interjected, it was apparent that he had no more interest in continuing the discussion.
Di Cheng also understood that it was impossible to subdue the entire Institute just like that, hence, he agreed and left.

After arranging the living quarters for Di Cheng, the upper echelons of the White Deer Institute gathered once again for a discussion.

Within the great hall, the core members of the Institute assembled. The four supreme elders, the nine grand elders, as well as the more powerful ones from the direct line of descent of the younger generations.

The one leading the discussion was none other than Bailu Yi’s great-grandfather, who was also the current headmaster of the White Deer Institute.

This old man had a head and beard full of white hair, yet his eyes brimmed with the vitality of tigers and dragons, exuding an imposing aura in each of his movements.
“Tell me, what are your thoughts on this matter?” The old man calmly spoke, directing the question to the four supreme elders.

“I disagree with their words, our White Deer Institute has already formed a faction of our own. Why do we still need to be under the control of others? Not only that, Di Cheng didn’t even have the token,” a supreme elder replied, showing his displeasure.

“Indeed, we have to ponder over this deeply. Our ancestral teachings are one thing, but still, we cannot be sure of Di Cheng’s identity.”

“I agree with Eldest Brother.”

The last supreme elder drummed his fingers on the supports of his seat before he added, “Let’s hear the opinions of the younger generations.”
Bailu Yi silently took note of the attitude of the crowd. What made her astonished was that the supreme elders seemed to disapprove of the matter.

A bitter smile involuntarily appeared on her face when she thought of Qin Wentian. It seemed that the path Qin Wentian had chosen, wouldn’t be as smooth as what he had expected.

“Little Yi, what do you think?” One of the elders turned his gaze onto Bailu Yi. This elder was none other than her grandfather.

Bailu Yi pondered for a moment before asking, “I don’t presume to know the thoughts of the supreme and grand elders regarding the White Deer Institute. I only hope that our Institute will be the same as before, to remain hidden within the Moon Continent. When the successor truly appears before us, proving his identity and strength, only then should we all follow him in a bid to rise again to the pinnacle of Grand Xia. But of course, if the successor doesn’t appear, there’s no need for further discussion.”

Many of the elders froze for a second, but smiles could be seen on their faces soon after.

“We are all getting old and muddle-headed, seeing as a single sentence from this young lass has summed up the core of this issue. She’s right.” Bailu Yi’s great-grandfather smiled.

“If the successor really has the ability to allow the Azure Emperor Palace to rise again, I have no issues,” a supreme elder added.
Each of the core members then expressed their thoughts and Bailu Yi discovered that the majority of the core members actually wanted the White Deer Institute to reveal their relations with the Azure Emperor Palace, and to rise once again in Grand Xia.

“Little Yi, you should have heard the opinions of our core members. Tell me more about your thoughts.” Bailu Yi’s great-grandfather glanced at her, as a gentle smile appeared on his face.
“Great-Grandfather, it seems like the majority of our core members are dissatisfied with the status our White Deer Institute has today.” Bailu Yi gave a shallow smile.

“In the end, the Grand Xia Empire is still the world of the transcendent powers. Although our White Deer Institute is powerful, in truth, the four transcendent powers of the Moon Continent have been silently putting pressure on us,” the old man replied.
“Mhm, since the majority of us are dissatisfied, this means that we need to find an opportunity.” Bailu Yi nodded.

“You mean, to surrender to Di Cheng?” the old man asked.

“No, but I believe in the true successor of the Azure Emperor. The holder of the Azure Emperor Token, would definitely be someone phenomenal.” A sweet smile painted Bailu Yi’s face as her eyes lighted up. She discovered that the appearance of Di Cheng, may not be a bad thing for Qin Wentian.

At the very least with Di Cheng’s attitude, there was no way he would be able to convince the White Deer Institute to follow him.

Bewilderment shone on the face of Bailu Yi’s great-grandfather. Why did this lass have so much trust in a non-existent successor?

“But Di Cheng said that the person in charge of the Azure Emperor Token has been captured by the Nine Mystical Palace. No one knows where the token is now.”

“Great-Grandfather, do you believe in his words?” Bailu Yi asked, causing the old man to shake his head with a laugh. “No, I don’t.”
“Enough, we will discuss this further. The younger members can leave first, but remember to be cautious and not let word of this meeting leak out. If not, don’t blame the supreme elders from acting accordingly.” The old man’s voice carried a warning, this matter was too serious and concerned the survival of the White Deer Institute. Even though everyone here was a core member, a reminder wouldn’t hurt. It was better to be safe than sorry.

After Bailu Yi and the rest left, the White Deer Institute were still polite to Di Cheng, at least on the surface. They believed that Di Cheng was truly a descendant of the Di Clan. If not, there was no way for him to know so many secrets.

However, despite their hospitality, Di Cheng could clearly tell that the White Deer Institute had no intentions of bowing down to him. He didn’t even have the opportunity to meet with any of the supreme elders after that.
But Di Cheng was too shameless, he still continued strutting about in the White Deer Institute and would often find opportunities to get close to Bailu Yi.

His actions and attitude caused many of the core members to frown. Even if Di Cheng was a descendant of the Di Clan, how could the Di Clan dare to choose someone like him as a successor?
It wasn’t until the arrival of another young man, that those from the White Deer Institute discovered that their thoughts were correct.

This new arrival was named Di Feng, and his demeanor and bearing were worlds apart from the pompous Di Cheng. Composed, calm, with the feel of a leader. This man was extraordinary.

Not only that, his combat prowess was many times higher compared to Di Cheng.

After his arrival, Di Cheng toned down his attitude. Di Cheng no longer dared to strut around his identity as successor, which spoke volumes to those from the White Deer Institute.

Di Feng, was the true successor the Di Clan had chosen. And comparing Di Cheng and Di Feng, the core members from the White Deer Institute couldn’t help but feel that Di Feng was too outstanding. Maybe, he truly had the capability to lead the Azure Faction to rise up once again.

…………………………….

In the training grounds of the White Deer Institute, several gazes were fixed upon the two young men standing there now. These two, were none other than Di Feng and Bailu Jing.

Bailu Jing was evidently at a disadvantage when he exchanged blows with Di Feng, the impact causing him to retreat without pause. When the force completely dissipated, a sharp glint of light gleamed in his eyes as he stated, “You should have another identity. Am I right?”

Di Feng flicked his sleeves, a cold smile on his face. “Brother Jing has extraordinary strength, I’m sure your ranking will be upgraded during the next refresher. Yes, you are right, I have another title. I’m also known as Emperor Azure.

“Emperor Azure, Azure Emperor,” Bailu Jing murmured, “Indeed as I expected, you are truly him. Only today have I fully understood the implicit connotations behind the name of Emperor Azure.”

The spectating elders all started, this young man was actually the ‘Emperor Azure’.

“Emperor Azure.” Bailu Yi was stunned. The 5th ranked on the Heavenly Fate Ranking was exactly named Emperor Azure.

Emperor Azure’s name resounded throughout Grand Xia, but how many would have expected that his real name was Di Feng?

“Emperor Azure, Azure Emperor, so this is how it is,” Bailu Yi’s grandfather mumbled, he understood the unspoken meaning of this name.

It was only that such a grand character as Emperor Azure didn’t even receive the inheritance nor authority token of the Azure Emperor.
Actually, this was also one of Di Feng’s regrets. It wasn’t that he didn’t have the strength, it was due to the environment he grew up in. When he was young, he followed his master in roaming the world. When he returned, it was already too late. He had already broken through to Yuanfu and hence, was unqualified for the test in the Emperor Star Academy, administered by Di Yi.

But still, Di Feng couldn’t care less.

Even without the Azure Emperor Token, he would still be the leader of the Azure Faction.
“Little Yi, do you think this young man has the ability to lead the Azure Faction back to its former glory?” Bailu Yi’s grandfather smiled at her, his question causing her expression to suddenly falter.

A sudden notion occurred to her. Could all of this be pre-planned? The Di Clan was too smart, they first sent Di Cheng over, causing everyone to have bad impressions of him. After which, they followed up with a Di Feng, ranked #5 in the Heavenly Fate Ranking.

Such a blatant contrast would definitely cause Di Feng to gain the approval of many.

Bailu Yi was contemplating on what to say, but right at this moment, somebody hastily walked in front of her and reported, “Miss Bailu, Qin Wentian, has returned.”

Bailu Yi froze, as a smile broke out on her face soon after. That fellow was finally back!

Chapter 276: Fairy Qingmei’s Attitude

After Qin Wentian obtained that ancient scroll, he immersed himself completely into comprehending it, while also adjusting himself to the transformation within his body. This secluded acclimatization lasted two months, during which he had completely forgotten about the passage of time.

Throughout these two months, he marveled deeply at the strength of his bloodline, while pondering over the insights regarding the profound Inscriptions created by that Celestial Ascendant.
Indeed, the Gold-Element Ascendant was truly and exceptionally a monstrous talent in terms of both cultivation and Divine Inscriptions.

Qin Wentian was thinking back to that ancient scroll he gave up. That cultivation art should be extremely powerful as well.
Yet Qin Wentian had no regrets, he trusted his instincts. If it weren’t for the fact that his third eye had activated, allowing him to see that the nine golden guardians possessed cultivation bases, he may not have suspected the inheritance. But he saw those nine golden guardians with strength at the peak-level of Yuanfu acting like Puppets protecting the inheritance, in addition to their willingness to give up their lives to activate the golden-armored Puppet. Adding these two observations together, a sliver of doubt couldn’t help but enter Qin Wentian’s heart.

Hence, he had chosen to abandon the inheritance.
Throughout these two months, both his power levels in terms of cultivation and Divine Inscriptions took a huge leap forward. He was now even more confident in his own abilities. He believed that it wouldn’t be too long before he’d gain a foothold of his own in the Moon Continent.
The pressure Qin Wentian felt when he first came to the Moon Continent pushed him to go even further, constantly upgrading his strength with the quickest speed. In fact, for his age, he could already be considered one of the most exceptional geniuses in the history of Grand Xia.
He started cultivation at the age of sixteen, then condensed his first Astral Soul from the fifth Heavenly Layer. Similarly, his second and third Astral Souls were also from the fifth Heavenly Layer. Up till now, he had not met anyone whose accomplishments rivaled him in this aspect.
He then stepped into Yuanfu before the age of eighteen, his name rocking the entire Chu Country and even had the power to decide who should wield the authority to rule. This was something many wouldn’t be able to achieve in their entire lives.
And now, at the age of nineteen, he had broken through to the fourth level of Yuanfu, all in the span of two months.
His Yuanfu receptacles expanded and his understanding of his Mandates deepened further.

At this moment, a beautiful silhouette was walking over from afar. Although Bailu Yi’s beauty couldn’t be compared to Mo Qingcheng, she was an extremely stunning woman in her own right. Clean, with a fresh and cool look, in addition to her innocent personality and sexy figure, it all guaranteed that she would certainly be a head-turner wherever she went.

“Hmph, you’re finally back,” Bailu Yi pouted as she glared at Qin Wentian. In front of Qin Wentian, she no longer acted like the Teacher Bailu she was before. She was more casual and easygoing, like how friends interacted. There were even moments where her girly attitude could be seen, enhancing her charm even further.
A teasing smile could be seen on his face when Qin Wentian looked at Bailu Yi. “From your tone, why does it sound like this place is my home?”

“In your dreams.” Bailu Yi glared at him. “How were your ‘gains’ this time around?”

“Huge. Do you want to take a look at that ancient scroll left behind by the Ascendant?” A mischievous smile could be seen on Qin Wentian’s face, such a treasure would prove irresistible to virtually all Divine Inscriptionists.

If this matter was circulated to others, there would definitely be fourth-ranked Inscriptionists going into a frenzy because of it.

“Forget it, that inheritance was obtained by you, it should belong to you,” Bailu Yi replied after giving the matter some consideration.

“Well, I didn’t say that I would give it to you.” Qin Wentian laughed heartily, causing Bailu Yi to roll her eyes. Was this fellow just making fun of her earlier?
“Well, I guess I can lend you the scroll for a few days, I’m a genius after all.” Bailu Yi didn’t know whether to cry or smile at this remark, so she chose the next best thing, punching Qin Wentian instead.

To be honest, Qin Wentian wouldn’t be stingy. Bailu Yi wasn’t just beautiful, during the fight for the inheritance, she had blocked Zhu Sha’s strike for him, suffering injuries.

“Where are Big Bro Chu Mang and that fatty?” Qin Wentian couldn’t help but ask as he noticed the approach of Little Rascal.

“I can only use the word ‘crazed’ to describe them. They hadn’t slacked off in their cultivation in the slightest, and these days they’re usually found in the Hell Arena, accumulating their battle records.” Bailu Yi’s words made Qin Wentian somewhat moved. That fatty was finally motivated and wasn’t skiving off anymore.

Undoubtedly, Leng Ning’s death also had a huge impact on him.

In this Grand Xia Empire where experts were as numerous as clouds, to be without sufficient strength meant that you could only stand aside when things important to you were about to be lost.

If the Qin Wentian back then had the power he had today, he definitely wouldn’t have allowed the Leng Clan to touch even a strand of hair on Leng Ning’s head. With his current level of power, even dealing with that perverse freak, Yan Tie, would be mere child’s play.

“Qin Wentian, come with me, I’ve something important to talk to you about.”

Bailu Yi’s countenance suddenly turned solemn. After which, she led Qin Wentian to a secret corner near her residence. She didn’t bring him to the central courtyard, where the elders had their discussions, as one would have to be a core member of the Institute to gain entrance there.

Di Feng and Di Cheng were exceptions because they knew the greatest secret of the White Deer Institute—that they were a branch of the ‘hidden’ Azure Faction.

Qin Wentian knew of it as well but had chosen not to reveal the authority token. Naturally, Bailu Yi wouldn’t divulge this information to others.

“What happened?” Qin Wentian involuntarily questioned upon noticing the look of worry on Bailu Yi’s face.

“During the past few days, a group of people came to our White Deer Institute. One of them is named Di Feng, but he has another title, that of Emperor Azure, someone ranked #5 in the Heavenly Fate Ranking. They said that they’re from the main bloodline, the Di Clan lineage of the Azure Emperor.” Bailu Yi’s words instantly caused Qin Wentian’s face to sink.
Main bloodline, Di Clan.

Qin Wentian suddenly thought of the Emperor Star Academy’s Headmaster, Di Yi.

He should still be imprisoned in the Nine Mystical Palace. Was he still alive or had he already been tortured to death by them? As he thought of this, Qin Wentian’s thirst for power grew even stronger.

“Somehow, they knew that our White Deer Institute is one of the branches of the ‘hidden’ Azure Faction. Their purpose in coming here was to dominate and gain control of the Institute, to unite the Azure Faction and then ultimately lead the Azure Emperor Palace to rise to prominence once more,” Bailu Yi explained, causing many thoughts to abruptly bloom in Qin Wentian’s mind.

He already knew when he received the token that his road to unite the Azure Faction wouldn’t be smooth. And now, someone from the Di Clan of the main bloodline had appeared, he wondered what their true intentions were.

And if they knew that the Azure Emperor Token was in his hands, what actions would they take?

Qin Wentian asked in a heavy voice, “Would the White Deer Institute recognize them without the Azure Emperor Token?”

“This branch feels very conniving. Initially, they sent the silk pants young master, Di Cheng, to give everyone a bad impression of them. After which, Di Feng, the young, charismatic hero, appears. The majority of the elders have a very good impression of Di Feng, as though they could see hope if he were the one leading us. I think the White Deer Institute might very well agree to be under their control,” Bailu Yi explained as she continued, “Their explanation regarding the absence of the Azure Emperor Token was that the guardian of the token has already been captured by the Nine Mystical Palace. They are worried that he might divulge the secret of the ‘hidden’ Azure Faction. Hence, this matter convinced those who were initially against the Di Clan to change their minds.”
Qin Wentian pondered over Bailu Yi’s words for many moments. This matter was a challenge to him, but similarly, it was an opportunity as well.

The Di Clan of the main bloodline had already poked a hole for him to enter, their actions causing the White Deer Institute to have thoughts and discussions about returning to the Azure Emperor Palace once more. The only question remaining was: who would be the one to lead them?
“After Headmaster Di Yi handed the Azure Emperor Token to me, because of my matters, he was eventually captured by the Nine Mystical Palace. I believed that even when faced with death, he would never divulge the Azure Emperor’s secret,” Qin Wentian stated with unshakable conviction.

Apparently, he had no choice but to move his plans forward. The White Deer Institute would be the first battleground in his quest to unite the Azure Faction. He had to win them no matter what.

“What are your next plans?” Bailu Yi asked again.

Qin Wentian gravely regarded Bailu Yi before he smiled, “Don’t worry, even if Di Feng from the main bloodline wanted to compete with me, the one victorious, will still be me.”

So what if Di Feng was ranked #5 on the Heavenly Fate Ranking? Given a few years time, Qin Wentian’s name would definitely be one of the most illustrious names to appear within the Heavenly Fate Ranking as well. He was aiming for the position of the top ranked.

This was his utter conviction, and also his ambition.
“Let’s go, I’ll share with you the comprehensions I acquired from the Ascendant’s scroll.” Qin Wentian laughed. Looking at that handsome countenance, Bailu Yi involuntarily broke into a smile as well. She believed that regardless of the challenges, Qin Wentian would definitely be the one victorious.

In the course of obtaining the Ascendant’s inheritance, he had already offended the ranked #11 Zhan Chen, ranked #18 Yang Fan, as well as Zhao Lie and Hua Feng. So what if he added the ranked #5, Di Feng, into the mix?
…………
In a place far, far away from the Moon Continent, where demonic beasts and humanity peacefully co-existed together, the Palace Mistress of the Celestial Lake Palace was respectfully looking at an alluring beauty in the main seat of the great hall.

Fairy Qingmei lazily laid there, as a few glints of demonic light sparkled in her eyes. Her jade-like hands drummed on the chair as she remarked in a low voice, “That old fellow, can he no longer wait?”

“From gathered news, there are currently two great powers that are already on different sides. No one will be able to prevent this,” the Palace Mistress quietly explained.

“Hehe, I didn’t think there’d already be worms eating the Azure Faction from within before they got the chance to rise up once more. Do they really want to go against the last orders of the Azure Emperor, directly seizing power into their own hands without waiting for the appearance of the authority token?” A grave smile with hints of cold anger could be seen on Fairy Qingmei’s face.
“I think that’s what they wanted to do. Throughout all these years, their power has consolidated, even nurturing powerful elites such as Di Feng. My news stated that Di Feng has already arrived at the White Deer Institute in the Moon Continent.” It seemed as though the Palace Mistress knew the matters and happenings of the Moon Continent like the back of her palm.

“How are things going with Qinger and that little fellow? Could that lass’s heart already be moved by him?” As Fairy Qingmei thought of Qinger, the grave-looking smile faded away, replaced by one of warmth and gentleness.

“I don’t think so. Master should be extremely clear about Qing`er’s personality. She may be ignorant, but that ignorance has made her as pure as jade, and as emotionless too. It would be exceedingly hard for someone to move her through emotions,” the Palace Mistress replied. “As for that little fellow, he is pretty outstanding indeed.”

“Oh?” Fairy Qingmei’s pupils slightly narrowed, “It’s rare to find someone that you have such a high evaluation of. Since this is the case, send some reinforcements over to the Moon Continent to help him. Naturally, it would be good if nothing untoward happened, but if something did happen, they should be made clear of my attitude.”

Chapter 277: Blocked Path

After Qin Wentian passed the ancient scroll to Bailu Yi, she excitedly sunk her will and consciousness into it. Lost in the profoundness of the Inscriptions, she entered a state of forgetting everything.

Right from the start, she had always been deeply interested and mesmerized by Divine Inscriptions. Now the insights of an Ascendant were right in front of her and like Qin Wentian, she was unable to extricate herself once she started reading it.

The Gold Element Ascendant had many unique ways when it came to the application of knowledge and within the ancient scroll, there were powerful fourth-ranked Inscriptions, formations, ways to refine fourth-ranked Puppets and methods to forge fourth-ranked Divine Weapons.

Regretfully, Bailu Yi still didn’t have a high enough level of attainment to comprehend them. She couldn’t understand nor perceive clearly the Inscriptions within. She could only gain a slight amount of insight.

After they met up with Chu Mang and Fatty, the four of them then entered a closed-door cultivation session, secluded within the White Deer Cavern, while Little Rascal laid beside them.

In actuality, Qin Wentian had initially wanted to spend an even longer time meditating in the desert. He had only rushed back because he was worried that Bailu Yi and Fan Le would be worried about him. Now that he’d returned, he would take this chance to discuss with Bailu Yi his thoughts and interpretations regarding the ancient scroll, further consolidating his foundation for both of them. Such an exchange left him feeling marvelous and extremely satisfied with his growth.

However, Di Cheng’s current emotions were far from feeling marvelous nor satisfied.

If the Di Clan wanted to gain control over the White Deer Institute, not only did they need approval from a majority of the core members, they also had to place importance in forming good relations with the group as a whole. Only then would the White Deer Institute wholeheartedly submit to their authority and help them willingly. Di Feng was undoubtedly the most suitable candidate there that would gain the recognition of the Institute’s core members.

In this cultivation-oriented world, other than the sake of obtaining benefits, it was also important to develop connections and good relations.

Hence during these few days, Di Feng had been staying in the White Deer Institute and would occasionally visit the supreme and grand elders, even interacting with those from the younger generations. Gradually, the feelings of admiration towards this talented young man grew stronger and stronger. There were increasingly more people who trusted and believed in Di Feng.

But for Di Cheng, the White Deer’s Institute treatment and attitude towards him were spiraling downwards by the second. Now, there was nothing for him to do and even his existence was completely ignored. And what’s more, he had just received news that Bailu Yi was currently in closed-door cultivation together with another young man. How could he be feeling great?

“Is Little Yi still in closed-door seclusion?” At this moment, Di Cheng asked Bailu Yi’s father.

“That lass.” Bailu Yi’s father lightly shook his head. He knew that ever since Qin Wentian had come back, Bailu Yi hadn’t left his side, even for a single moment.

He was perplexed by the situation. Normally, he would misunderstand the relationship between his daughter and Qin Wentian. However, he found that he had no objections to it because he had taken a liking to that young man. At the very least, Qin Wentian excelled in every aspect compared to Di Cheng. And also, despite both being descendants of the Di Clan, Di Cheng’s level was too far apart when compared to Di Feng.

“Father, it seems that your daughter has already been abducted by Qin Wentian,” Bailu Jing remarked with a laugh, standing at the side. His words were spoken precisely for Di Cheng’s sake.

Indeed, after hearing his comment, Di Cheng’s countenance immediately changed. “Who is Qin Wentian? Is he even worthy of my Little Yi?”

Bailu Jing and his father took offense whenever Di Cheng referred to Bailu Yi as ‘his Little Yi’, yet they couldn’t bring themselves to take up the issue with him. After all, he was still a guest of their Institute.

“It doesn’t matter if he’s worthy or not, as long as Little Yi likes him.” Bailu Jing’s words deliberately mocked Di Cheng further.

As expected, after Di Cheng heard that, his unsightly countenance became even uglier to behold.

“Master, the young missus has ended her closed-door seclusion.” Just then, a maid ran up to report. Bailu Yi’s father smiled, his eyes lighting. “This lass can finally bear to come out now.”

“I’ll leave first,” Di Cheng bid his farewell in a strangled voice, causing the Bailu father-and-son pair to exchange amused glances with each other. After which, Bailu Yi’s father stated, “Follow him, don’t let him cause any trouble.”

“Right.” Bailu Jing nodded as he turned and left as well.

Not long after Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi exited the cavern, a group of people crowded around them, causing them to feel slightly dismayed.

“That guy is Di Cheng,” Bailu Yi whispered, subtly pointing to the guy standing in the lead. When Qin Wentian swept his gaze over, he could see that Di Cheng had a cultivation base at the fifth level of Yuanfu. And indeed, from the perspective of the Grand Xia Empire, this level of cultivation base wasn’t anything to boast about, especially when considering Di Cheng’s age.

Right then, Qin Wentian saw two elders of the Institute halting their steps as they passed by.

When Qin Wentian tried to determine their cultivation bases, he realized that he couldn’t do so.

Apparently, with his current level of strength, his third eye would only be able to perceive the cultivation of those at the Yuanfu Realm.

These elders of the Institute should have a cultivation base at the Heavenly Dipper Realm, which was why he couldn’t perceive it.

“Little Yi, I’ve missed you terribly. We haven’t met once these past few days.” Di Cheng flashed a handsome smile on his face, causing Qin Wentian to be somewhat at a loss for words. This fellow was a ‘genius’ like Fan Le.

Now, Qin Wentian was even more certain that the Di Clan allowed Di Cheng to arrive first to let the Institute build up their bad impression of him. This wasn’t something that Di Cheng faked but was his real personality instead.

Bailu Yi’s countenance immediately changed, her anger boiling even more when she noticed Qin Wentian winking at her from the side.

“Di Cheng. From now onwards, kindly refer to me as Bailu Yi,” she angrily exclaimed. After which, she turned and locked arms with Qin Wentian, glaring at him and forcibly marching him away.

“Eh…” A bitter smile appeared on Qin Wentian’s face. This girl was using him as a shield, her actions causing many onlookers to eye them with expressions of interest.

Now, even if he wanted the members of the Institute not to misunderstand, any further explanation on his end would just cement this false impression even more. Although the truth was that they really were only friends, the members of the White Deer Institute wouldn’t think of it this way.

“Qin Wentian?” Di Cheng blocked their path. He narrowed his eyes, as a smile filled with malice appeared on his face.

“You’re in my way.” Qin Wentian smiled back in response.

“I know. I heard that you’re some unaffiliated cultivator with average talent in cultivation. The only noteworthy thing about you is your high level of attainment in Divine Inscriptions and that you’re currently a third-ranked Grandmaster,” Di Cheng replied.

Qin Wentian frowned slightly. This Di Cheng was really efficient, he had been investigated quite thoroughly.

“And?” Qin Wentian calmly replied.

“Although Divine Inscriptionists are highly revered by others, you shouldn’t let that get you in over your head. Because in the eyes of transcendent powers like me, Inscriptionists like you are only tools to be used. Sure, we may need you to forge Divine Weapons and to refine powerful Puppets, but in the end, people like you are just tools. After all, it would be impossible for you to use Divine Inscriptions for combat. Who would allow you the time to inscribe them in the heat of battle? In the end, one’s personal cultivation is still the key to strength.”

Di Cheng said loftily, puffing out his chest. Qin Wentian was speechless. This fellow blocked his path to tell him a whole load of bullshit, just because he wanted people to hear how outstanding he was?

But could Di Cheng even be considered outstanding at all?

Naturally, when one talks about superiority, they’re referring to the comparison between two parties of equal capabilities. Di Cheng knew he couldn’t be compared to Di Feng. But as for a puny nobody like Qin Wentian? How could he let him climb over his head? He definitely had to suppress Qin Wentian.

In truth, Di Cheng wasn’t stupid. He understood the purpose of why his clan sent him here. He made it clear that he didn’t want to pursue Bailu Yi merely for her looks. It was because of her status in the White Deer Institute as well. He knew that if he could marry her, he would at least have some prestige here in the White Deer Institute.

And if he really were to succeed, his Di Clan would definitely feel very satisfied with him.

“Are you finished?” Qin Wentian’s tone was indifferent, staring at Di Cheng as though he was someone unworthy of his notice. Such a reply caused Di Cheng’s smile to stiffen, as he trembled slightly with rage. “Do you still not understand my meaning?”

Seeing how his opponent had no intentions to budge, Qin Wentian’s countenance sharpened as a terrifying light from his eyes shot towards Di Cheng’s. Di Cheng only felt an overwhelming sense of crisis engulf him as he involuntarily took two steps back in retreat. These steps of retreat, caused him to be filled with utter humiliation.

“Let’s go.” Qin Wentian smiled.
Bailu Yi played along as she acted innocent, watching the interaction with wicked amusement twinkling in her eyes. Her arms were still linked with Qin Wentian’s, blatantly so in fact, as though she were deliberately doing it to tell Di Cheng to give up on her.

From a distance, Bailu Yi’s father and Bailu Jing had smiles on their faces when they saw what happened. The bitter-looking smile appeared on Qin Wentian’s face again. Misunderstanding, this was all a misunderstanding.

As Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi took a few steps forward, Di Cheng stepped up once again. Immediately, the pressure from a cultivation base at the fifth level of Yuanfu gushed out, pressing onto Qin Wentian.

“Since you don’t understand, let me tell it to you plainly. Get lost from the White Deer Institute.” The pressure intensified.

However, in the next moment, Qin Wentian’s feet stomped continually on the ground as golden light gleamed in his eyes. Instantly, Di Cheng screeched as an intense bout of pain hit him. He felt as though the presence of death had descended onto him. Such might…was unquestionable. To even challenge it would be blasphemy.

“BOOOM!” A huge feeling of pressure rumbled his brain. Di Cheng’s countenance paled as he staggered backward again.

Qin Wentian acted as though nothing out of the ordinary had happened and continued walking forwards. As his eyes swept across Di Cheng once more, Di Cheng’s pale face lost even more of its pallor and he coughed out huge mouthfuls of blood.

“Buzzz!” Wrath warping his features, Di Cheng ignored his injuries and released his Astral Souls. His body was instantly enveloped by Astral Energy, forming a protective membrane around him as he glared hatefully at Qin Wentian.

By that time, Qin Wentian had already stopped in front of him. Reaching forth with his palms, he then retracted them with such speed that a crack resounded in the air. An instant later, countless runic outlines madly interweaved as the form of a great Roc manifested. Its immense stature moved with an unbelievable speed that belied its size, so fast that Di Cheng didn’t even have the time to feel fear. He only felt the claws of the Roc grabbing his robes, violently flinging him out of the way, akin to when someone was taking out the trash. The implied meaning was clear, Qin Wentian was treating Di Cheng as rubbish.

“How dare you.” A cold voice rang out, and a silhouette appeared behind Di Cheng, catching him from mid-flight while absorbing the force of the impact. At the same time, that person sent out a palm strike, easily disintegrating the manifestation of the great Roc Qin Wentian had created.

Di Cheng stood up with the old man’s help, with blood still leaking from his lips. Near his chest area, his robes had already been totally shredded. Any semblance of a smile was completely gone. His countenance only reflected a feeling of sinisterness.

“Combat with Divine Inscriptions isn’t impossible. At the very least, to deal with someone of your standard, I can kill as easily and as many as I want. So don’t act so conceited with your half-witted intelligence.” At his indifferent remark, Di Cheng once again coughed out fresh blood, this time in frustration!

Chapter 278: Reverting to Simplicity, Comprehension

After finding out that Bailu Yi was close to Qin Wentian, naturally, Di Cheng would then seek out many members of the White Deer Institute to learn more about his love rival.
The members were all extremely familiar with Qin Wentian and Di Cheng easily discovered that he was a third-ranked Inscriptionist with a cultivation base at the third level of Yuanfu. He didn’t hail from any of the major powers and knew of Bailu Yi only because of their mutual interest in Divine Inscriptions.
Hence, that was the reason for his earlier words. He wanted to knock Qin Wentian off his ‘pedestal’ by putting down Divine Inscriptionists and even claim that it was impossible to fight using Divine Inscriptions during actual combat.
But with his actions, Qin Wentian showed that it wasn’t impossible, and on the contrary, easily dealt with Di Chang.
The Bailu Jing and his father all stared in amazement, their understanding of Qin Wentian’s level of attainment deepened once again. The path of Divine Inscriptions was akin to the path of cultivation in the sense that they were both tremendously difficult to advance in. Moreover, most peak-tier, third-ranked Inscriptionists all already had a headful of white hair. It was extremely uncommon to come across such a young peak-tier, third-ranked Grandmaster that could even effectively use Divine Inscriptions in combat. Qin Wentian was too abnormal.
He would definitely step into the fourth-rank sooner or later, it was merely a matter of time. By then, his status would be completely different.
If he could step into the realms of ordinary fourth-ranked Inscriptionists before the age of twenty, the fame and status he would enjoy wouldn’t lose out to the few names at the top of the Heavenly Fate Rankings. At the very least, such a character hadn’t appeared before in the Moon Continent.
However, to cross from the third-rank to the fourth-rank, it was akin to the difficulty of Yuanfu stepping into Heavenly Dipper. This was a huge watershed, it wasn’t so easy to break through.
But presently, none of them noticed that not far away, there was an elder whose eyes shone with an indescribable emotion when he saw Qin Wentian’s execution of his ability with Divine Inscriptions.
“From now onwards, do not bother Little Yi any longer. You are unworthy of her.” Qin Wentian stared at Di Cheng, his voice matter-of-fact. He was speaking for Bailu Yi on account of their friendship. A beautiful lady like her, in addition to her genteel personality and outstanding talent, her boyfriend would never be at the level of Di Cheng. As he said, Di Cheng was simply unworthy.
Di Cheng’s countenance alternated between shades of green and white. Although he was humiliated by Qin Wentian when they crossed blows, what could he do? In any case, he had already lost his persuasiveness. He was unlikely to convince the Di Clan’s elder to deal with Qin Wentian for him. The purpose of the Di Clan visiting the White Deer Institute was to form a good relationship. How would it look if they saw him persuading an elder to mistreat Qin Wentian, a guest of the Institute? Especially after he had mishandled the situation.

No matter how bitter he was, Di Cheng could only accept this.

And just after Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi took a few steps forward, a chill wind suddenly gusted as yet another silhouette appeared, intercepting them once again.

Upon seeing the face of the person obstructing his way, Qin Wentian’s countenance froze slightly, feeling slightly depressed. What was going on today? First, there was Di Cheng blocking his path and right after him, this aged-looking figure blocked it again. Although Qin Wentian didn’t know exactly who this aged figure was, Qin Wentian knew that he had seen this old man before in the Institute. It should be one of the elders.

“Grandpa Tong, is anything the matter?” Bailu Yi faltered slightly as puzzlement shone on her face.
Grandpa Tong was her senior, the same generation as that of her real grandfather. He was one of the nine elders of the White Deer Institute. His words carried considerable weight as a fourth-ranked Divine Inscriptionist in addition to being a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign.

“Little Brother Qin, I wish to borrow something from you.” Bailu Tong’s eyes shone brightly as he stared at Qin Wentian.
Qin Wentian politely replied, “What would Senior like to borrow?”

“The ancient scroll of that Celestial Phenomenon Ascendant.”

As the sound of his voice faded, Qin Wentian’s eyes widened as he involuntarily glanced at Bailu Yi. Did she reveal to Bailu Tong what had happened in the secret realm?
Back then he heard from Bailu Yi that the other transcendent powers made a pact to keep silent, there shouldn’t be anyone else who would know of the events that had transpired within the secret realm.

At this moment, Bailu Yi was stunned as well. She hadn’t expected that Bailu Tong would know about this.

The ancient scroll of the Gold-Element Ascendant was a priceless treasure. Qin Wentian lent it to Bailu Yi only because of their closeness, as well as the fact that he trusted her. However, he wasn’t at all familiar with Bailu Tong. Anyone would be angered to have some stranger suddenly come up, randomly asking to borrow a priceless treasure. Qin Wentian was no exception.
Bailu Tong noted the expressions on their faces and instantly understood. It seemed that the ancient scroll really did end up with Qin Wentian.
“I heard Little Brother Qin met with great fortune in the secret realm and obtained the ancient scroll of Divine Inscriptions of that Celestial Ascendant. I would just like to borrow the book to browse through some of the Ascendant’s insights. I’ll return it to Little Brother Qin right after that,” Bailu Yi continued, as a terrifying light flashed past Qin Wentian’s eyes.

What status did Bailu Tong have? And how valuable was the ancient scroll? Blocking his path under the pretext of borrowing the scroll? Bailu Tong was obviously planning to take it for himself.
“Senior must be joking. Junior has such a low cultivation base, how could I even obtain anything of value from that secret realm?” Qin Wentian laughed, looking Bailu Tong in the eye.
Even if Bailu Tong knew that he had the ancient scroll, he wouldn’t go and admit it.
The ancient scroll may be a valuable treasure, but it was also a great source of trouble. Regardless of whether others knew about it or not, Qin Wentian would never admit that he was the one in possession of that ancient scroll.

“Oh? But my sources are reliable.” Bailu Tong similarly stared at Qin Wentian, as a smile appeared on his face.
Valuable treasures would naturally cause feelings of greed to appear in the hearts of men. If Qin Wentian didn’t have such a close relationship with Bailu Yi and wasn’t a guest of the White Deer Institute, Bailu Tong would have already resulted to using force to snatch it.
Plundering and theft weren’t an uncommon thing in this cultivation-oriented world. Strength was everything.

“Senior must have been mistaken.” Qin Wentian continued smiling. He was sure this matter wasn’t divulged by Bailu Yi and Bailu Jing. And even if they had revealed it, Bailu Tong wouldn’t be the first to receive the news.
Since that was the case, it must have been those chosen from the transcendent powers. They intentionally leaked this piece of news out.
“Since that’s the case, will Little Brother Qin allow me to inspect your interspatial ring?” Bailu Tong laughed.
His words were truly too presumptuous.

Who in this world didn’t have secrets? An interspatial ring is one of the most personal items owned by a cultivator. How could one easily allow others to inspect it?
“Grandpa Tong, you forget yourself.” Bailu Yi frowned, although he was her elder, he had gone overboard with his forceful manner of approach.
“Little Yi, this matter has nothing to do with you.” In fact, if it weren’t for her sake, how could he be this polite with Qin Wentian?
“Are you sure this has nothing to do with me?” Bailu Yi replied harshly, her tone filled with sarcasm. Her arms were still linked to Qin Wentian’s.
“You should understand the importance of that Ascendant’s scroll. Now that it’s right in front of me, your Grandpa Tong definitely needs to obtain it.” Bailu Tong stared at Bailu Yi, his tone as grating as chopping nails and slicing iron.

“Bailu Tong, don’t overstep your bounds.”
At this moment, a silhouette walked over. This was none other than the large-eyed elder whom Qin Wentian had met before.
Bailu Tong’s countenance didn’t shift in the slightest when he saw the large-eyed elder. As a Divine Inscriptionist, that ancient scroll of the Ascendant was only a few feet away from him. Such a temptation was irresistible.
“Great Elder.”

“I’ve already said what I wanted to say,” the large-eyed elder coldly berated. “Don’t forget it was Qin Wentian who aided our White Deer Institute in that exchange, enabling us to enter the secret realm.”
“Hmph.” Bailu Tong flicked his sleeves and left. Evidently, he wouldn’t be forgetting this matter any time soon.

“Many thanks to Great Elder.” Qin Wentian respectfully clasped his hands in the direction of the large-eyed elder.
“As a guest of our Institute, it should be us who must apologize for the treatment you’ve just received. I, on behalf of the Institute, still hope that you will forgive us,” the large-eyed elder replied. After which, he shifted his glance to Bailu Yi. “Little Yi, you must take good care of Little Brother Qin, alright?”
“Mhm.” Bailu Yi mumbled, as a tinge of redness appeared on her cheeks before departing with Qin Wentian.
They set off once again to the back mountains. Over there, it was peaceful and quiet, the gentle breeze causing people to have a sense of tranquility.
Qin Wentian sat on the ground and an involuntary smile appeared on his face when he saw Little Rascal nuzzling its head into his chest.
He extended his right arm and as he flicked his left fingers, a beam of sword light flashed past and made a light cut. Soon, droplets of vibrant blood dripped downwards.
“Little Rascal, open your mouth,” Qin Wentian instructed.
“Yiyi ya!” Little Rascal shook its head, an appearance of reluctance appeared in its eye, as though it were angry at Qin Wentian.
“I know you followed me back then because you could sense something in my bloodline calling out to you. I know my blood is useful to your evolution and it doesn’t affect me if I lose a few drops of it, so don’t worry about me.” Qin Wentian lovingly patted its head.

A pouting expression appeared on Little Rascal’s face before it opened its mouth.
“How well-behaved.” Qin Wentian laughed as he proceeded to drip his blood into Little Rascal’s mouth. Moments later, a golden gleam could be seen flashing in its eyes as Little Rascal yawned and ran off, falling asleep to the side.

“There may be people intentionally spreading the news around, are you not worried at all?” Bailu Yi couldn’t help asking when she saw how relaxed Qin Wentian was. Bailu Tong’s actions couldn’t help but cause her to feel pressure.
How would others take this bit of knowledge, if even an elder of her Institute reacted like this?
“Valuable treasures would naturally stir the greed in the hearts of men. Why is there a need to worry? I just have to be stronger than what they can throw at me,” Qin Wentian replied. Bailu Yi nodded, “I agree, each predicament appears incomparably complex but yet, doesn’t simplicity lies on the other side of complexity? Strength can indeed solve everything, but sadly you are still too young, you are not powerful enough as of now.”
“Wait, what did you just say?” Qin Wentian’s eyes suddenly lit up, as he stared at Bailu Yi.
Bewilderment colored her face as Bailu Yi looked back at him. Qin Wentian couldn’t be angry, right? He didn’t seem like someone who would be so easily angered.
“Erm, strength can indeed solve everything, but sadly you are still too young, you are not powerful enough as of now,” Bailu Yi repeated.
“No, what was the sentence before that?” Qin Wentian’s heart was pounding with excitement.
“Each predicament appears incomparably complex but yet, doesn’t simplicity lies on the other side of complexity?” Bailu Yi mumbled. She didn’t know what Qin Wentian was thinking about.
“Yes, that’s it, seemingly incomparably complex, but in fact, simplicity is just on the other side of it.” Qin Wentian drew in a deep breath, as comprehension dawned on his face. He inclined his head slightly, enjoying the feel of that gentle breeze, immersing himself in that pure feeling of enlightenment.
“Going from simplicity to complexity, that’s because one understands the essence of its application. Yet, reverting to simplicity from complexity is the highest level,” Qin Wentian murmured. Bailu Yi’s eyes flickered but she couldn’t understand what Qin Wentian meant.
Qin Wentian squatted down as he slashed a single vertical line in space. This was just an ordinary straight line, yet it clearly contained a surge of hidden energy within it.

Bailu Yi stared at that vertical line in confusion. She still didn’t understand. She walked up to Qin Wentian before squatting down and studying it, channeling a slight bit of Astral Energy into it to observe the changes.
A split-second later, a vast column of sword light exploded forth from the thin air, causing such shock to Bailu Yi that she fell over backward, sitting on the ground. She could only stare at Qin Wentian in amazement when she felt the power the column of sword light contained.

“You broke through…” Bailu Yi’s heart was pounding, her tone was filled with emotion.
“Yeah.” Qin Wentian smiled, as though nothing extraordinary had just happened. The confidence he normally radiated suddenly intensified by several degrees!

Chapter 279: Pressure

 

Bailu Yi’s heart pounded madly as her beautiful eyes stared unblinkingly at Qin Wentian.

“Fourth-rank?” Her rosy lips moved, a quaver could be heard in her voice.

Within the Moon Continent, the youngest of all fourth-ranked Inscriptionists were at least aged fifty and above, with the majority of them all old eccentrics above a hundred years old. Almost all those monstrous geniuses were talented in both fields, but would rather spend the bulk of their time advancing their cultivation. Almost none of them would be willing to invest the effort in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions at all.

Qin Wentian, was definitely a different species compared to them.

“Not yet.” Qin Wentian smiled, his words causing Bailu Yi to gently let out a breath that she wasn’t conscious of holding, as her twin peaks jiggled slightly from reflex. Obviously, she wasn’t aware how much killing power her unconscious movements contained from the perspectives of males.

“You scared me.” Bailu Yi glared at him.

“What rank of Inscription is that?” Qin Wentian smiled as he asked, pointing to what he’d earlier etched, the ordinary-looking, simple vertical line that hid a mighty sword-type Inscription within.

“The third rank,” Bailu Yi replied, but amazement was still reflected in her eyes. Although Qin Wentian hadn’t broken through to the fourth-rank, he had stumbled upon a higher truth in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions. How many third-ranked Inscriptionists could inscribe a third-ranked Inscription instantaneously with a wave of their hands? Not even a fourth-ranked Inscriptionist might necessarily be able to do so.

“Instantaneous inscriptions, and you even condensed the essence of that sword-type Inscription into a single line. A major breakthrough indeed.” Bailu Yi smiled.

“It was all thanks to your advice, reverting to simplicity from complexity. Before this, from the first and second rank all the way to the third rank, the level of Inscriptions was originally simplistic in nature, yet they become gradually more complex. Each and every thread of the runic outlines interweaves to form a clearer and more complete picture as our understanding in Divine Inscription deepens. The complexity of the Inscriptions naturally corresponds with the level of difficulty. But now, following this line of thought, if we want to advance from the third-rank to fourth, wouldn’t that mean our Inscriptions will contain even more runic outlines, making it countless times more complicated? If that were the case, the difficulty of inscribing fourth-ranked Inscriptions would be beyond imagination.”

“Hmm, what you’re saying is correct, isn’t it? That’s why those geniuses talented in both fields would rather focus their efforts on cultivation. The difficulty in breaking through from the third-rank to fourth-rank might be even tougher compared to breaking through to Heavenly Dipper from Yuanfu,” Bailu Yi continued, “Also, during a battle, a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign could easily kill a fourth-ranked Divine Inscriptionist before he could even etch an Inscription. There won’t be anyone waiting for you to inscribe fourth-ranked Inscriptions during a real battle.”

Qin Wentian naturally understood this logic; this was also one of the reasons Di Cheng had used to humiliate him. And it was true. If not, him having an attainment at the peak-tier of third-ranked inscriptionists would already mean that his combat prowess could rival those at the peak-level of Yuanfu. Apparently, this was not the case.

It was impossible to compare the cultivation path and the Dao of Divine Inscriptions like this.

In spite of this, it wouldn’t affect the status and amount of respect a fourth-ranked Inscriptionist would enjoy. After all, being a fourth-ranked Inscriptionist meant that you could forge fourth-level Divine Weapons or set up fourth-ranked formations. There would be many people seeking their help, Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns included.

“There is a myriad of ways and methods to advance on the path of cultivation, and the same holds true for the Dao of Divine Inscriptions. Other Inscriptionists would naturally have their own method to inscribe Inscriptions while this, reverting to simplicity from complexity, is what I’ve comprehended. This is my way. In any case, where the water flows, the canal is formed. Although I’m still at the third-rank, it’s only a matter of time before I step into the fourth-rank.”

Qin Wentian stated this matter-of-factly, with no hints of arrogance. His way of Inscription had a lot to do with the Spirit Refinement Method he’d unlocked in one of the old fogey’s memory fragments. The Spirit Refinement Method consisted of using Divine Inscriptions to convert Astral Energy into Divine Energy. The indicator for when one reaches the perfection stage of the first level would be the ability to instantly convert Divine Energy from Astral Energy from any type of first-ranked Divine Inscription. The indicator for when one reaches the perfection stage of the second level would be when one can instantly convert Divine Energy from Astral Energy, using any type of second-ranked Divine Inscription.

Now, for the Spirit Refinement Method, Qin Wentian still had not reached the perfection stage of the third level. But at the very least, he could already insta-inscribe some of the simpler third-ranked Inscriptions. This meant that he was at the minimum, already at the great success stage of the third level Spirit Refinement Method, he was only a hair’s breadth away from the perfection stage.

Indeed, the Spirit Refinement Method had contributed the most to Qin Wentian’s way of Inscriptions.

“In other words, are you saying that you are very close to breaking through to the fourth-rank?”

“Since I’ve already comprehended this insight, breaking through to the next rank merely requires more time in expounding and meditating on what I’ve learned. It’s like I’ve already found the doorway, I only need to open it wider. It shouldn’t be too difficult,” Qin Wentian replied with a smile, his casual words causing Bailu Yi’s heart to palpitate again.

A nineteen years old fourth-ranked Inscriptionist?

She couldn’t help trembling the moment she imagined it.

“I guess I have to go back into closed-door seclusion again,” Qin Wentian smiled resignedly. Although he placed a heavier emphasis on the advancement of his cultivation, the Dao of Divine Inscriptions was the only thing that could allow him to gain the recognition of the White Deer Institute within a short period of time. Hence, he was temporarily choosing to focus on his attainment, aiming to break through to the fourth-rank.

In that case, as a nineteen years old fourth-rank Inscriptionist, his status and fame wouldn’t lose out to those names ranked at the top of the Heavenly Fate Ranking.

The White Deer Institute would also view him in a new light, which would smooth his path to gaining control when he eventually revealed his Azure Emperor Token.

“Okay, you should do your best and focus, you must definitely break through, okay?” Bailu Yi pumped her little fist up in the air, her smile full of innocence and beauty. “As long as you step into the fourth-rank, with the additional weight provided by the authority token, any objections to you gaining control would go unheard.”

“Yeah.” Qin Wentian nodded in agreement. The difference in ‘weight’ for a fourth-ranked Inscriptionist to take out the authority token compared to a fourth-level Yuanfu cultivator taking out the authority token was worlds apart.

Bailu Yi then raised her hands, clenching it into a fist while Qin Wentian mirrored her actions. “Boom.” Their fists gently bumped each other before she turned and departed. It was a fist bump of support and friendship.

Qin Wentian drew in a deep breath, before sitting down cross-legged and proceeded to clear his mind. Time, he needed more time.

Before the Institute fully recognized Di Feng, he needed to overturn the current situation by revealing the authority token. If not, everything would be too late.

……..

In the quiet back mountains, the green grass was spread like a lush carpet. Sunshine, raindrops, and the gentle breeze nourished the area and over here, a young man sat cross-legged with his eyes closed, appearing cut off from the rest of the world. It was as though nothing could disturb the peace of his heart.

Beside the young man, a snowy puppy was imitating his actions, attempting to sit cross-legged, its antics extremely adorable.

In the day, the snowy puppy would run about randomly, chasing its tail. At other times, an appearance of kinship would appear on its countenance as it licked the face of the young man, as though it considered him family. And yet, what was truly shocking was that every night, as the puppy laid down to rest, beams of Astral Light would cascade downwards and enter its body, causing a golden-colored radiance to emanate forth from it as it infused itself with starlight.

As for Chu Mang and Fan Le, they spent their days at the grueling landmark of the Moon Continent – Hell Arena. Over there, through the relentless tempering of real life-and-death situations, their combat prowess grew exponentially.

Chu Mang had long broken through to the sixth level of Yuanfu, while Fan Le had also just stepped into the fourth level.

The two of them also sparred often with each other during this period of time. Although Fan Le’s cultivation base was still not at Chu Mang’s level, he was strong enough to barely keep pace with him in a fight if he activated his bloodline limit. This period of time was well-spent.

Indeed, the Moon Continent offered a more enriching experience than the little country that was Chu.

Many things happened in the Moon Continent within this period of time as well. One of which, was the news that there was a character named Qin Wentian who met a stroke of good fortune and obtained the inheritance of the Ascendant – an ancient scroll of Divine Inscriptions from the secret realm. Naturally, this news immediately caused huge waves of commotion the instant it was circulated. Several Grandmasters all felt the stirring of greed arising within their hearts.

The Gold-Element Ascendant wasn’t just a supreme powerhouse in terms of his cultivation level; he was also a terrifying fifth-ranked Divine Inscriptionist. One could only imagine how tantalizing the inheritance was to fourth-ranked Divine Inscriptionists.

But when their investigations showed that Qin Wentian was in the White Deer Institute, there were many whose hopes were immediately shattered.

The White Deer Institute was a place that specialized in Divine Inscriptions. Since Qin Wentian was there, it was highly likely that the inheritance had already landed into the hands of the Institute. And indeed, their investigations further showed that it had been a long period of time since Qin Wentian had stepped out of the White Deer Institute. Either his movements were restricted, or he was imprisoned by the elders of the White Deer Institute.

And just at this moment, where many eyes were focused onto Qin Wentian, the man himself still remained in closed-door seclusion inside the back mountains of the White Deer Institute.

Today, Bailu You brought along two younger disciples towards the back mountains, but upon reaching its base, found themselves running into Bailu Yi who blocked their way.

“Little Yi, what is the meaning of this?” Bailu You had an unhappy expression on his face as he irritably remarked.

“Uncle You, I know the purpose of your visit. He’s in closed-door seclusion now; please refrain from disturbing him.” Bailu You was the eldest son of Bailu Tong and had some attainment in the Dao of Divine Inscription, albeit not very high. His purpose of visiting the back mountains was as clear as day.

“When did the back mountains of my White Deer Institute get occupied by an outsider? I can’t even enter there even though my surname is Bailu?” Bailu You coldly laughed. “And in any case, I’m here today only because there’s a number of guests that wish to meet with him. Even without me saying so, you should know how important these people are.”

“He won’t meet them,” Bailu Yi stated with utter certainty. She naturally understood who those people were. Recently, there had been many fourth-ranked Divine Inscriptionists paying a visit to the White Deer Institute because they wanted to meet with Qin Wentian.

The White Deer Institute couldn’t reject the visit of these fourth-ranked Grandmasters as each and every one of them had extraordinary backgrounds. But it was obvious to Bailu Yi that there was someone who wanted to use these fourth-ranked Divine Inscriptionists to pressure Qin Wentian.

With the pressure mounting, if the Institute chose to forsake him, then Qin Wentian would be left with no allies in the Moon Continent. The only choice remaining for him that could ensure his safety would be to hand over the ancient scroll to the White Deer Institute. Undoubtedly, it would be the best course remaining to him.

“Oh? Little Yi, your friend is truly arrogant. He won’t even meet fourth-ranked Grandmasters?” Bailu You coldly laughed. “Even if he chooses to decline the meeting, he should be the one to reject it personally. Get out of my way.”

After speaking, Bailu You continued moving forwards. Bailu Yi’s eyes glittered, and as her silhouette flickered, she appeared once again before Bailu You, blocking his path.

“IMPUDENT!” Bailu You shouted, as a fearsome aura gushed forth from him. Since it came to this, he wouldn’t bother to take into consideration familial ties any longer. Even if it meant that he had to make a move against Bailu Yi, he had to see Qin Wentian today.

Bailu Yi’s countenance turned incredibly unsightly. She didn’t expect that someone from her own family would act against her.

“Since Senior wishes to meet me, why would I reject?” It was then that an ephemeral-sounding voice drifted over from afar, causing Bailu Yi’s eyes to light up. She couldn’t be more familiar with the owner of this voice!

Chapter 280: Extraordinary Character

Bailu You snorted as he pushed his way past Bailu Yi and made his way up the mountains. After hearing Qin Wentian’s words, she naturally stepped aside and followed behind her uncle as they made their way to the mountain top.
Qin Wentian was sitting in the grassy region of the mountain slope. Upon noting Bailu You’s arrival, he gave a slight bow and smiled, “Does Senior have any requests for me?”
“Grandmaster Qin, it’s truly difficult just to secure a meeting with you.” Bailu You spat out the words ‘Grandmaster Qin’ one by one, his tone heavily tinged with mockery. Evidently, to him, Qin Wentian wasn’t worthy of the title ‘Grandmaster’.
“Senior must be joking. Junior was in closed-door seclusion these past few days and Little Yi only barred Senior’s path because she was worried that I would be disturbed. If we have offended you unknowingly, please accept my apologies.” Qin Wentian was still smiling, as though he didn’t hear the mockery in Bailu You’s words.
Bailu You was unwilling to give way, and he continued sarcastically, “Grandmaster Qin is in closed-door seclusion? Wow, can it be that you broke through to the fourth-rank?”
Qin Wentian continued smiling, he didn’t bother to reply with words.
Bailu You couldn’t help but curse in his heart, Qin Wentian wouldn’t be so easily provoked. “Today, several esteemed guests have paid a visit to my White Deer Institute, hoping to meet with Grandmaster Qin. All of them are fourth-ranked Grandmasters, and so I wonder if Grandmaster Qin would be willing to give them some face.”
“Oh, I don’t know anyone in the Moon Continent, why would people be wanting to pay me a visit?” Qin Wentian curiously inquired.
Bailu You’s face darkened ominously. Qin Wentian truly didn’t know how high the Heavens were. He even dared to use the term ‘to pay me a visit’ when the guests were all fourth-ranked Grandmasters?
“It is not ‘to pay you a visit’, but rather, to summon you to meet with them.” Bailu You clearly placing emphasis on the word ‘summon’.
“Oh.” Qin Wentian nodded but didn’t comment further. These fourth-ranked Grandmasters really chose the right time to visit. After exchanging glances with Bailu Yi, and noting the worried expression on her face, Qin Wentian instantly understood. The fourth-rank Grandmasters were definitely here for one thing only—the ancient scroll of the Ascendant.

Although Qin Wentian had already stopped commenting, Bailu You jabbed in with even more sarcasm, “‘Grandmaster’ Qin? Why are you still not preparing to move?”
“Hmm, and why must I move?” Qin Wentian had a puzzled expression on his face as he stared at Bailu You.
“You…” Bailu You’s stare turned chilly, as he glared at Qin Wentian. “There are many fourth-ranked Grandmasters who wish to see you now. Tell me, if you don’t move, are you expecting all of them to come look for you instead? Are you avoiding them?”
The tone of Bailu You was as cold as winter’s frost, yet he didn’t expect Bailu Yi to interject, “Uncle You, you should be extremely clear on their motives. Why do you want to be their mouthpiece?”
Bailu You’s purpose was extremely clear, he wanted Qin Wentian to be pressured by the Grandmasters. Only then, for the sake of self-preservation, would Qin Wentian submit to Bailu Tong, his father.
“Senior must be joking, why would I avoid meeting them?” Qin Wentian softly commented. But gradually, the smile on his face disappeared as his tone turned as sharp as swords. “I don’t wish to meet them because I don’t wish to. What do you mean by using the word ‘avoid’?”
Bailu You’s cold smile stiffened, he glared at Qin Wentian and was about to say something more when Qin Wentian spoke once again, “If they want to see me, let them come. I will wait for them here.”
“You… you expect fourth-ranked Grandmasters to personally pay you a visit?”
“Why not? Weren’t they the ones who wanted to meet with me?” Qin Wentian shrugged, as he continued, “It’s not like I need a favor from them, nor have they shown me any form of courtesy before this. If you want me to pay a visit just because of a single word from them, wouldn’t that mean I’m debasing myself? Oh, could it be that Senior loves to debase yourself?”
Bailu You’s eyes narrowed as he forced out a smile. “Sharp words. Since that’s the case, I shall go inform the many fourth-ranked Inscriptionists that they are to pay a visit to ‘Grandmaster’ Qin.”

After which, Bailu You flicked his sleeves and left. The young men behind him stared at Qin Wentian with venom dripping from their eyes.
After the three of them had departed, Bailu Yi’s countenance showed a mixture of trepidation and anxiety. She explained, “During the period of time when you were in closed-door seclusion, the news of you obtaining the Ascendant’s inheritance has been leaked. Bailu You is the son of Bailu Tong, so you should be extremely clear about their motives. The fourth-ranked Inscriptionists banded together against you, and it seems they intend to use pressure tactics to overwhelm you.”
Qin Wentian lightly nodded, as he slowly stood up. He couldn’t help but smile reassuringly when he saw how worried Bailu Yi was. “Don’t fret, watch how I’ll deal with them if they push me too far.”
Bailu Yi’s eyes brightened as she understood the unspoken meaning of Qin Wentian’s words. “Were you successful?”
“Yeah.” Qin Wentian smiled.
“Really?” Bailu Yi inquired again.
“Yup, yup.” Qin Wentian continued nodding.
“Fourth-rank? You are not lying?” Bailu Yi asked for the third time as the amazement in her eyes intensified, this was too incredulous.
A fourth-ranked Grandmaster at the age of nineteen.
Qin Wentian rolled his eyes and walked over, laughing as he lightly rapped Bailu Yi’s head. “Absolute truth, I am not lying to you.”
“This is too wonderful!” Bailu Yi seemed overcome by her emotions, involuntarily jumping up with excitement and then embracing Qin Wentian into a hug. “Oh heavens, I’ve actually just witnessed a nineteen-year-old stepping into the level of fourth-ranked Grandmasters. This is history in the making! This is too crazy, Qin Wentian, you are too crazy!”
“Eh…” Qin Wentian didn’t expect Bailu Yi to lose control like this. As he felt her soft and supple peaks pressing into his body, he didn’t know where to look. Hence he chose to look at Bailu Yi’s face.
Bailu Yi’s actions resulted from a combination of her innocence and pure happiness. Upon seeing that Qin Wentian was staring at her, Bailu Yi blinked, and stopped jumping about as a tinge of redness blossomed on her cheeks. Her current bashfulness, when coupled with her innocent-looking face, caused the Qin Wentian at this moment to become akin to an idiot.
Although he was already accustomed to beauty, at that moment the Bailu Yi in front of his eyes was too beautiful.
“Wait for me, I will go blow this matter up.” Bailu Yi’s eyes suddenly glowed as sudden inspiration struck her. As she jogged away, it was as though she felt something as she gingerly rubbed her head. She turned back to Qin Wentian and scolded, “Damn it, you used so much strength.”
“… did you only just realize that now?” Qin Wentian turned speechless. After which, he only saw Bailu Yi smile sweetly at him before she left at top speed.
“Blow up the matter?” Qin Wentian stared at her exquisite figure as he blinked. This lass, if given a chance, would surely turn the whole world into chaos.
Without having to wait too long, Qin Wentian soon noticed a row of silhouettes advancing up the mountain. Among them, there were several that had heads full of white hair, some even looked so ancient, as though they were ready for the grave, while a few others had an amiable and kindly look on their faces. However, regardless of how they looked, all of their auras held hints of similarity—they were exuding an air of faint arrogance.
Powerful Inscriptionists were all used to being revered and respected by others. Even the transcendent powers would not easily offend fourth-ranked Grandmasters, using a vast fortune instead to enlist their aid or even buy them over to their side. These methods were effective, as long as they were willing.
Fourth-ranked Inscriptionists would never lack in wealth, and they wouldn’t lack in fame as well. No matter where they were, they were like shining moons, drawing the attention of the stars around them. And even now, they were accompanied by Yuanfu experts from the seventh to the ninth level of Yuanfu to act as their bodyguards and ensure their safety.
For some that had limited success on the path to cultivation, if they had talent in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions, they would then invest all their efforts into it, spending large amounts of time studying and researching Divine Inscriptions. This was because even if you were a fourth-ranked Grandmaster with a cultivation base at the Yuanfu level, the amount of status and fame you would enjoy would still be extremely significant.
Hence, it was inevitable for them to unconsciously exude that aura of faint arrogance.
When they came face to face with Qin Wentian, he could clearly sense the heightened atmosphere around these fourth-ranked Grandmasters.

“Two are Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns, while the others are all at the Yuanfu level. Even the weakest among them are at the fifth level of Yuanfu.” Qin Wentian swept his gaze past them and instantly perceived their cultivation bases.
Not only that, Qin Wentian realized that he was even acquainted with one of the Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns.
“Junior pays his respect to Grandmaster Fenrir.” Qin Wentian politely dipped into a bow of respect. Back then in the exchange organized by the Star-Seizing Manor, Grandmaster Fenrir had been the judge. Not only that, Qin Wentian knew that Grandmaster Fenrir was an exemplary example of fairness, and even held him in admiration.
Grandmaster Fenrir laughed in response, a bright glow shone in his eyes as he stared intently at Qin Wentian, as though he was witnessing something extremely shocking.
“During the time when we met at the Star-Seizing Manor, I could already tell that you are no ordinary character. And now, indeed as I expected, the Heavens bestowed upon you good fortune. But of course, you must have worked hard too. Congratulations.” Grandmaster Fenrir nodded with a smile, his tone calm and composed, as though he was talking to an equal. There were no hints of superiority in his manner.

Qin Wentian could easily feel the sense of good-naturedness emanating forth from Grandmaster Fenrir. He also understood the meaning of Fenrir’s words, hence Qin Wentian replied as he laughed, “Junior has good luck, and back then during the exchange, I’ve benefited tremendously from the experience I gained there. Now that I’ve met Grandmaster Fenrir again, I have to convey my gratitude.”
After speaking, Qin Wentian dipped into another bow, his movements filled with sincerity and respect.
“Good.” Grandmaster Fenrir smiled, as he nodded. His feet then subtly shifted to the side, as though he intentionally wanted to distance himself with the other fourth-ranked Inscriptionists. He silently made a mental note, this young man was definitely not some mere carp in a little pond, he would surely transform into a dragon that would soar into the nine heavens one day.

He knew that this was an opportunity, and so it would be good if he could form a good relationship. But if not, he must never offend Qin Wentian.
But apparently, the others didn’t notice Grandmaster Fenrir’s minute movements, and naturally, they couldn’t understand the profound depth and implicit meaning within the simple conversation between Fenrir and Qin Wentian.
Not only that, they were even under the impression that Grandmaster Fenrir was hinting that Qin Wentian had already obtained the Ascendant’s inheritance, and Qin Wentian had even admitted it!
Hence, their eyes that were now staring at Qin Wentian, began to brighten with the glint of greed. They were looking at Qin Wentian as though they were looking at their prey!
Inheritance of the Ascendant? They would make this little upstart hand it over today!

Chapter 281: Swords And Daggers Drawn

 

Swords and daggers were drawn and being pressed to his throat; this was what Qin Wentian was feeling now.

Bailu You was also in the group, as he was the one that led all these Divine Inscriptionist Grandmasters over. However, the wine drinker’s heart was not in the wine, his motives were different from the rest. He didn’t really wish for Qin Wentian to hand the ancient scroll over, he only wanted Qin Wentian to feel the pressure.

And when Qin Wentian began caving in from the pressure, he would naturally do the ‘good-guy act’ and step out to offer him hope.

Hence, Bailu You currently stood to the side, watching the current scene unfold with a faint smile on his face.

But at this moment, the sounds of footsteps rang out. Bailu You turned his head only to see a newly arriving group rush over. It was the large-eyed elder, together with Bailu Yi, Bailu Jing and their father.

“Did that lass think that they would be able to stop this, just with the appearance of the Great Elder?”

Bailu You naturally could discern what Bailu Yi was thinking. As the newcomers arrived, Bailu You stood up and bowed slightly, “Great Elder.”

“Mhm.” The large-eyed elder casually nodded, yet he was feeling extremely confused in his heart. He only tagged along because he was feeling bored; Bailu Yi had only told him that there would soon be a good show to watch.

“Father.”

Bailu You suddenly noticed the arrival of his father, Bailu Tong as well. Bailu Tong nodded in response, he knew that the large-eyed elder was on his way here, which was why he decided to join in as well.

His scheme must not be spoiled by Bailu Yi.

The fourth-ranked Grandmasters didn’t show any signs of impatience. They merely remained silent, with no hint of their thoughts showing on their faces as they noted the arrival of Bailu Tong and the large-eyed elder.

They weren’t impatient, and neither was Qin Wentian. He merely stood at one side, appearing extremely relaxed.

Eventually, one of the fourth-ranked Grandmasters, with sunken eyes and a high nose, couldn’t hide his greed any longer. He narrowed his eyes, his gaze resembling a poisonous serpent and stared straight at Qin Wentian, causing the latter to feel extremely uncomfortable.

“Qin Wentian.” Three bodyguards stood behind him, all of them at the ninth level of Yuanfu. The Inscriptionist himself was an old man that had a cultivation base at the seventh level of Yuanfu. “You wanted us to personally pay you a visit? This is the first time I’ve met a third-ranked piece of crap so arrogant that he would even dare request us fourth-ranked Grandmasters to personally pay him a visit.”

“Senior must be joking.” Qin Wentian pointed to the path behind the old man as he smiled.

“What do you mean I’m joking?” The old man’s gaze bore into Qin Wentian’s.

“I had no intention of asking Senior to pay me a visit, I think Senior must have been mistaken. Oh, the pathway is just over there, so please don’t let me take up more of your time, Senior. Good day.” Qin Wentian’s smile grew even wider. His implied meaning was obvious—it was not I who wanted to meet with you, but you who wanted to meet with me. But if you don’t wish to meet me, the path is right there, goodbye.

“You…” How could the old man fail to understand Qin Wentian’s meaning, his caved-in eyes became more sunken, as glints of cold light erupted forth.

“What’s the use of a sharp tongue? Wanting us to leave right after we’ve just arrived, aren’t you overestimating yourself too much?” the old man sharply retorted.

An expression of pity appeared on Qin Wentian’s face. “Senior, are you a retard?”

As the sound of Qin Wentian’s voice faded, the countenance of the old man instantly sank. Qin Wentian was calling him an idiot in front of everyone?

Ever since he stepped into the ranks of the fourth-ranked Divine Inscriptionists, nobody had dared to humiliate him. A terrifying pressure emanated out from his three ninth-level-Yuanfu bodyguards, gushing towards Qin Wentian.

As long as the old man gave a command, they would immediately attack.

“I will give you a chance to apologize.” The old man’s countenance had already turned bone-chillingly cold. It was still too early to contend for the ancient scroll, but right now, for the matter of his humiliation, he first wanted Qin Wentian to apologise.

“Senility has no cure.” The expression of pity disappeared from Qin Wentian’s face, his gaze turning sharp as he stared at the old man in front of him.

These people were too much, wanting to use pressure to overwhelm him. How could he still remain even-tempered in his heart? In front of so many Grandmasters, out of respect for the rank they held, Qin Wentian initially still tried to be courteous.

But since that old man refused to reciprocate his kindness, why would he still fear to break the pretence of cordiality?

“Impudent!” the three bodyguards roared, as they dashed forwards. However, even before they could gather any momentum, the coldness of Qin Wentian’s voice penetrated their hearts. “If you take another step forward, die.”

As the sound of the word ‘die’ faded away, a glacial killing intent erupted forth from Qin Wentian, so frigid it caused people to tremble involuntarily.

In the face of such killing intent, the three bodyguards actually felt fear. Even with the advantage of their higher cultivation bases, their instincts were telling them that the young man in front of them was truly capable of carrying out his threat.

With just a single sentence from Qin Wentian, the entire mountain slope was filled with silence.

The gentle breeze gusted past as the lush green grass swayed in tandem.

Qin Wentian’s eyes were like ice-cold blades drilling right into that of the fourth-ranked Grandmaster.

“I’ve already indulged you enough by addressing you as ‘Senior’, yet you overstepped your boundaries time and time again just because you don’t understand your limitations. Since you are unable to understand the meaning of my words when I put it across nicely, let me reiterate once again,” Qin Wentian icily stated, “I, Qin, am training my cultivation here in the White Deer Institute’s back mountains. If you want to come, just come, if you want to leave, what does it have to do with me? Don’t give me pretty words such as ‘requesting you to pay me a visit’, I don’t give a damn about what you want to do. First, I’m not a junior of your sect. And second, I have no need to seek your help, so why would I need to request you to pay me a visit? If you have nothing here, then get out of my face.”

Qin Wentian’s overwhelming words caused everyone in the vicinity to freeze as unknown emotions flickered in their eyes.

Arrogant, this brat truly stank of arrogance.

Although Qin Wentian’s words were logical, only those with the power to back up one’s words would be taken seriously in this cultivation-oriented world. Who wouldn’t show a modicum of respect to these esteemed fourth-ranked Grandmasters? Yet Qin Wentian’s speech was like a harsh slap to their faces.

One could say that with a single sentence, Qin Wentian instantly offended that fourth-ranked Grandmaster. Even if he survived today, there were too many methods that fourth-ranked Grandmaster could employ to deal with someone at the Yuanfu Realm.

Even the large-eyed elder was wiping away the sweat from his forehead, where did this brat get his confidence from?

Glancing at Bailu Yi who was standing by his side, the large-eyed elder started in surprise. Bailu Yi’s eyes flickered with a hint of assuredness, appearing extremely at ease. Her confidence in Qin Wentian wouldn’t lose out to the confidence Qin Wentian had in himself.

Grandmaster Fenrir merely smiled and silently watched on.

He wanted to see how Qin Wentian would solve the situation today.

As for that old man with the sunken eyes, his countenance turned increasingly malevolent from Qin Wentian’s words.

‘If you have nothing here, get out of my face?’

A junior at the Yuanfu Realm dared to speak in this manner with him?

‘If you take another step forward, die.’?

Where did he get his confidence from?

Unless, Qin Wentian’s attainment had soared even higher after acquiring the ancient scroll inheritance from the Ascendant, allowing him to inscribe even more marvelous peak-tier third-ranked formations. Could it be that Qin Wentian assumed that by borrowing power from peak third-ranked formations, he would be able to deal with them?

“Brother Liang, the temper of juniors nowadays is truly fiery, indeed.” A black-faced, middle-aged man laughed. The Brother Liang he was referring to, was naturally the fourth-ranked Inscriptionist with the sunken eyes.

“If we weren’t within the grounds of the White Deer Institute, that Qin brat would have already died ten over times based on Brother Liang’s temper,” the black-faced, middle-aged man stated. The old man narrowed his sunken eyes, wondering why they were wasting so much time conversing with Qin Wentian. It didn’t matter if they were in the White Deer Institute or not. They could just kill him and plunder the ancient scroll away.

However, since the White Deer Institute allowed them to enter, it meant that they too, hadn’t yet obtained the ancient scroll and wanted to use the fourth-ranked Grandmasters as pressure to force Qin Wentian to give in. Both parties understood the intentions of each other clearly.

Hence, all of them were still spectating, waiting with bated breath. Because the old man with the sunken eyes had the most impatient nature, he was the one selected to start the ball rolling, making things difficult for Qin Wentian.

“Indeed, this young pup has no respect for his elders. He ought to be punished,” added another person.

This man had a flowing white beard and looked akin to an immortal. He was already above 150 years of age and had stepped into the level of a fourth-ranked Inscriptionist for a very long time. This old man was extremely well known in the Moon Continent and had even instructed many Grandmasters of the current era before.

“Eccentric Song feels this way as well?” The black-faced, middle-aged man laughed. After which, the old man with the sunken eyes glanced at Eccentric Song as he asked, “How does Eccentric Song feel that this young pup should be punished?”

“Fenrir, do you have any thoughts on this?” Eccentric Song stroked his beard, shifting his gaze onto Grandmaster Fenrir.

“Don’t ask me. I’m already acquainted with this little brother from back then. I’m only here today as a spectator. I won’t participate in whatever you guys have planned.” Fenrir smiled as he shrugged. Seeing how confident Qin Wentian was, Fenrir believed that Qin Wentian had already made his preparations. In that case, he would merely wait to watch the good show.

“In that case, the scroll of the Ascendant?” Eccentric Song’s eyes narrowed as they flashed with sharpness.

“None of my concern as well. If you guys have the capabilities to obtain it, take it away then.” Fenrir nonchalantly waved his hands.

“Excellent, excellent.” Eccentric Song laughed, there was one less competitor for the inheritance.

“For his rudeness, he should be slaughtered.” At this moment, a voice drifted from the back of the crowd. As the black-faced, middle-aged man shifted his glance over, he broke out into a smile, “Ghaus, to think you are here as well.”

“I, Ghaus, knew this brat since a long time ago. He has no respect for his elders, and has the ambition and heart of a wild wolf. The inheritance would only be wasted in his hands. We must slaughter him, and I’m sure the White Deer Institute wouldn’t be so stupid as to go against all of us.” Ghaus’s voice was filled with coldness.

“Ghaus, you are shameless.” Bailu Yi cursed. Just because of his grudge with Qin Wentian back then, Ghaus wanted to use it as an excuse to kill him today. How ruthless.

“Miss Bailu, does your White Deer Institute really wish to go against us?” Ghaus wasn’t angry, he smiled indifferently instead. The crowd then shifted their gaze onto the large-eyed elder and Bailu Tong. It seemed that the fourth-ranked Grandmasters had already made their stance clear, the next step would be to see how the White Deer Institute would react.

Bailu Tong sneered as he said in an extremely audible whisper, “We will see how he chooses then.”

Evidently, Bailu Tong wanted to shift the pressure back onto Qin Wentian, forcing him to make his decision.

These fourth-ranked Grandmasters were all out for his blood. Did he want the ancient scroll, or his life?

These Grandmasters were all highly revered and extremely famous in the Moon Continent and had determined his death with but a question and a few cold smiles. It was as though his life wasn’t worth crap.

And Ghaus actually revealed himself just to hit him when he was down?

Qin Wentian showed no fear at all. He calmly turned his gaze onto them as he slowly spoke, “Cut the crap. Why do you all need to waste so much time beating around the bush when your objectives are as clear as day? The ancient scroll is not in my possession, even if I did have it on me, it’ll be a cold day in hell before I give it up to losers like you.”

what does this ;w; means? ive seen cloud typing it ;w;

Chapter 282: A bunch of trash

As the sound of Qin Wentian’s voice faded, Bailu Tong’s laugh resounded out in the air. “Qin Wentian, a hot-blooded young man that doesn’t fear death. This undoubtedly shows his steely character. This trait is naturally a good thing, but sometimes, there are better choices. Why choose death for the sake of useless pride? Since you are a guest of our White Deer Institute, I’m sure these esteemed Grandmasters wouldn’t make things difficult for you if you hand over the ancient scroll into our possession. We could guard it for you.”

Bailu Tong’s countenance appeared full of concern, as though he was worried for Qin Wentian. However, the unspoken meaning of his words was naturally understood by all, causing the various fourth-ranked Grandmasters to silently curse that Bailu Tong was a wily old fox.

“Senior worries too much, Junior is still young, how could I wish to die?” Qin Wentian calmly replied. Guarding it for him? More like daylight robbery.
“Oh?” Bailu Tong’s countenance flickered as he laughed. “Since that’s the case, I won’t try to persuade you any longer.”

After speaking, Bailu Tong shut his eyes, as though he was giving his silent approval for the other fourth-ranked Grandmasters to take action.

The sunken-eyed old man, Old Liang, Eccentric Song and the black-faced middle-aged man exchanged glances as hints of laughter could be seen in their eyes. Old Liang, turned his gaze onto Qin Wentian as he narrowed his eyes, adding in a sinister tone, “The Ascendant scroll naturally belongs to those powerful enough to match it. A junior likes you wants to solely possess it? Only death awaits you.”

At his command, the three peak-level Yuanfu bodyguards stepped out, moving towards Qin Wentian.

“I’ve said it before, if you take another step forward, die.” Qin Wentian softly spoke, as a golden glint of cold light flashed past his eyes. In an instant, the three bodyguards felt their minds rumbling, as though they had just been the recipients of a vicious mind attack.

Shaking their heads clear, in the next moment, the wills of their Mandates gushed out, as a pressure akin to the heavy mountains enveloped the area.

One of them blasted forth with a palm and instantly, a blood-colored palm imprint the size of a mountain materialized, slamming towards Qin Wentian. Even from a distance, Qin Wentian could feet the will of the Mandate, causing interruptions in his blood flow.

“BOOM!” That blood-colored palm struck forth, as a deafening sound thundered out. And just when everyone thought that Qin Wentian was already dead, a sound like a mirror shattering echoed as Qin Wentian appeared again unharmed, calmly looking at them.

“Huh?” The Grandmasters all furrowed their brows, they could sense that at this moment, the Qin Wentian ahead was projecting a sense of ‘blurriness’, as though the silhouette in front of them wasn’t his real body but a kind of mirage instead.

Fenrir cupped his chin as a smile appeared on his face. Different Grandmasters were skilled in different aspects of the Dao of Divine Inscriptions. There were some that excelled in Divine Inscriptions combat, some claimed supremacy when it came to deciphering and neutralizing formations, while some were experts in forging weapons and others adept at the refinement of Puppets.

Similarly, for fourth-ranked Grandmasters, this was the case as well. Fenrir was more well-versed in Divine Inscriptions combat and neutralizing formations. And because he was a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign as well, his sharp sense of perception had already told him that there was a formation ahead.

This formation was an illusory-type formation and was that of the fourth-rank.

Not only this, what baffled Fenrir was that this illusory formation contained no killing arrays at all. It was a pure illusion-type formation so marvelously engraved all its runic outlines were concealed completely. That was why despite the presence of so many fourth-ranked Grandmasters, none of them had actually noticed the existence of this formation. Naturally, they didn’t see that the real purpose of this formation was merely a camouflage for the combat-type Divine Inscription traps which Qin Wentian had embedded into the ground.

These traps would be activated at the slightest touch, Fenrir was sweating on behalf of the other fourth-ranked Grandmasters.

He wondered how much determination did Qin Wentian have exactly, how far would he go to prove his point?

“Illusory Formation?” These fourth-ranked Grandmasters weren’t that useless. They could now tell that Qin Wentian had engraved an illusory-type formation here.

“Eccentric Song.” The old man with the sunken eyes stared at the highly respected Eccentric Song with inquiring eyes. Eccentric Song was extremely well versed with formations.

However, Eccentric Song was frowning as his eyes narrowed, a strong feeling of unease blossomed in his heart.

He was well versed with formations, but even he hadn’t seen through this before the bodyguards blundered into it.

This was sufficient to make him drop all carelessness and inspect it vigilantly. Upon seeing the mocking smile on the face of the young man before him, he couldn’t help but tremble with anger. “No worries, this formation is centered around illusive arrays, there’s no way for it to attack us. Go kill him.”

“KILL!” The sunken-eyed Old Liang immediately spat out a command when he heard the words of Eccentric Song. The three bodyguards advanced as they lunged towards the silhouette of Qin Wentian. Regardless of whether Qin Wentian was illusory or a real body, they would exterminate it all the same.

However right at this moment, a terrifying whistling abruptly echoed out. The pupils of the three bodyguards narrowed as they turned their eyes to the ground. On it, there was a radiant glow suddenly shining out. That was the glow indicative of Divine Inscriptions.

“Xiu, xiu, xiu…” Terrifying sounds of sword slicing transformed into an ear-splitting screech. The three bodyguards only felt a vortex of sword Qi gathering in spirals, roiling towards them. The maelstrom formed by the spiraling sword Qi seemed to have inexhaustible might and even a will of its own. The three of them immediately rose into the air, wanting to avoid the incoming tempest.

“RUMBLE!” Abruptly, another sound echoed as runic outlines shone again beneath their feet. Now, they felt a tremendous geo-magnetic force anchoring their feet onto the ground, they were no longer able to levitate.

In a blink of an eye, that maelstrom of sword Qi had already gushed over, enveloping the three of them within.

Expressions of unwillingness and terror warped their faces as the three bodyguards howled, “NOOOOOOOOOOO!”

Despair shone in their eyes as their bodies shuddered violently, the maelstrom of sword Qi surrounding them, was definitely a peak third-ranked Divine Inscription. It was currently devouring them.

“SAVE ME!” One of the bodyguards within howled in madness, gazing at the sunken eyes of their master, Old Liang. The hopelessness in his eyes shook the hearts of those spectating.

“Stay your hand.” Old Liang fiercely berated; however he only saw the maelstrom of sword Qi close in on the three bodyguards, completely devouring them. The lacerating sounds continued unabated as the torrential sword Qi remained as dense as ever. Occasionally, a dark red liquid would splatter on the ground and when the tempest ceased, nothing was left behind.

Three peak-level Yuanfu bodyguards vanished like smoke in the thin air. There weren’t even any traces that they once existed before.

The countenance of the spectators immediately turned incredibly unsightly. There were so many Grandmasters around, yet Qin Wentian was still able to kill three peak-level Yuanfu cultivators with his Divine Inscriptions.

Their gazes turned back onto Qin Wentian. Only now did they realize that the young man standing before them was not as easy to control as they had imagined.

“Fourth-ranked Grandmaster?” Qin Wentian stared at the old man with the sunken eyes, as sarcasm flashed past his eyes. “Does Grandmaster dare to attempt neutralizing my formation?”

Old Liang’s countenance sank as he shifted his glance at Eccentric Song, only to see Eccentric Song was narrowing his eyes in deep contemplation.

“That earlier Sword-type combat Divine Inscription was cloaked within his illusory formation. The formation itself actually hadn’t contained any killing arrays, and instead the three of them died to the peak-tier, third-ranked Sword Qi Maelstrom Divine Inscription trap hidden within it. Using the three of them to gain such valuable information have made their deaths worth it.”

Eccentric Song calmly commented while Old Liang turned ashen.

Wasn’t that the equivalent to sending his guards as guinea pigs to test out Qin Wentian’s formation?

This old undying freak was full of schemes indeed.

“Is that so? Since you already have first-hand information regarding my formation, would Grandmaster care to try it out?” Qin Wentian’s eyes stared straight at Eccentric Song, as he commented. Eccentric Song stroked his beard and smiled, “Just a mere third-level formation, do I still need to personally neutralize it? Ghaus, go and break it in my stead.”

Qin Wentian’s smiled coldly, Ghaus was to go in Eccentric Song’s stead?
“Old fox.” Ghaus involuntarily cursed in his heart. Although he was extremely unhappy with Qin Wentian, he knew that at his level, he would surely face danger if he were to attempt neutralizing Qin Wentian’s formation.

The other Grandmasters didn’t say anything but chose to watch on silently. At this moment, their hearts were in shambles, their eyes couldn’t even see through this illusory formation. Could this really be a formation at the third-rank?

In any case, they rather believed that there must be obscure methods of engraving formations, hiding the runic outlines from their eyes. It was better than to believe otherwise, because if this was a fourth-rank formation, it meant that…

But then again, they still felt that they were overly thinking things. The distance from third-rank to the fourth-rank was too wide apart, it was impossible to break through so easily. How old was Qin Wentian? It was impossible. Without tens of years of study and research, it was absolutely impossible.

“It must be because he comprehended some insights from the ancient scroll. The inheritance of that Ascendant must be truly formidable indeed,” Bailu You spoke out, as the other Grandmasters nodded in agreement. That was the only thing that made sense, Qin Wentian must have stumbled upon some mysterious method of engraving formations from the information he acquired through the ancient scroll.

“Ghaus, faster,” the black-faced, middle-aged man coldly commanded, “If you kill this brat, I will definitely not mistreat you.”

Ghaus’s countenance turned ugly, but he still nodded his head. Several Puppets appeared before him as he followed behind them, walking towards Qin Wentian.

“Kill,” Ghaus commanded while his Puppets rushed forth. Although killing intent was gushing from him, he stood there motionless, acting extremely cautiously.

Abruptly the runic outlines embedded on the ground shone with resplendent light, as a terrifying aura burst out from within the formation.

An awe-inspiring Great Roc floated up in the air, as it flew towards the Puppets, colliding directly into them. During that instant of combat, Ghaus sent out his perception, his eyes glinting with a cold light.

“That Divine Inscription is so easy to break, Ghaus, what the hell are you waiting for?” the black-faced, middle-aged man coldly stated. Ghaus could only grit his teeth and nod in agreement. Although it wasn’t difficult to neutralize that Great Roc Inscription, Ghaus was still extremely cautious, advancing forwards slowly.

However, as he took a third step forward, even before he neared the Great Roc Inscription, another set of runic outline glowed underneath its feet as it activated. It was unknown how many traps Qin Wentian had set within this formation.

“Buzz!” A shrill sound sliced through the air, Ghaus’s countenance instantly paled. He had stepped on and triggered a trap, yet he didn’t realize it until it was too late.

“Puchi…” A terrifying long lance penetrated downwards through Ghaus’s body, nailing him onto the ground. His eyes were still wide open, with traces of regret floating past them when he stared at Qin Wentian. Why… Why had he chosen to appear in front of this monstrous freak once again?

Qin Wentian gently waved his hands as a column of flames descended, burning Ghaus’s body into ashes. At the same time, with the death of Ghaus, Qin Wentian collected all the Puppets he had left behind. These Puppets now belonged to him.

The Grandmasters all stood there silently, their faces turning green. Was the inheritance of that Ascendant really that powerful, it could cloak and camouflage traps so well that even a peak-tier, third-ranked Grandmaster like Ghaus couldn’t sense anything amiss?

“Fourth-ranked Grandmasters?” Qin Wentian turned his gaze onto the other cautious, or some may say cowardly, Divine Inscriptionists that were observing from afar. He coldly laughed, “Fourth-ranked? How many years have you all lived in comparison to me? Are you guys still not confident enough in the level of your attainments? Speaking so loudly, only knowing how to boast blindly, in fact, how sad is this? You’re all nothing but a bunch of trash!”

Chapter 283: The Truth Revealed

 

Qin Wentian delivered his words harshly, degrading the bunch of fourth-ranked Grandmasters in front of him as though they were all garbage. As if he intentionally wanted to ignite their tempers.

Who were these people? No matter where they went in Grand Xia, they would all be treated as valuable guests.

But today they were publicly reprimanded, their humiliation brought down by a young lad who was not even twenty. How could their hearts remain unflustered?

However, they made no reply, and no one else was lashing out in anger. Earlier when they forced Ghaus up to do battle, what they wanted was to merely use him as a guinea pig to test out the formation.

They didn’t feel the slightest amount of pity at Ghaus’s death, on the contrary, it allowed them to know that this mysterious illusory formation was strange and unpredictable, and contained many traps embedded within the area. Although the traps were only third-ranked, the mysterious illusory formation could cloak the traps in so many layers that the traps were invisible even to their senses. Hence, it didn’t matter how high their attainments were, because how can one neutralize something that they couldn’t see? Everything was useless if their perception wasn’t strong enough. So even if they were fourth-ranked Grandmasters, if they were careless they might end up dying in there.

Which of them weren’t old freaks who had lived at least a hundred years? Coming across such a situation naturally made them even more cautious.

It didn’t matter if others died, but their own lives were all extremely precious. They would never do something which they didn’t have absolute confidence in. Even if Qin Wentian repeatedly antagonized them, they wouldn’t budge in the slightest.

“Why are you so vicious, young man?” Eccentric Song stroked his beard as he coolly remarked, “You might have gained some insights from that ancient scroll, but do you really think you have the qualifications to behave so arrogantly in front of us?”

“Earlier, we held back so as to give you a chance. Yet I would never have expected that you would be so blind, so foolhardy. If any of us fourth-ranked Grandmasters inscribed fourth-ranked Inscriptions to kill you, would you even be able to withstand our onslaught?”

Eccentric Song laughed as he exchanged glances with the other Grandmasters.

The older in years one was, the more experienced they would be. Why would they need to neutralize Qin Wentian’s formation? They could directly inscribe fourth-ranked Inscriptions to kill him. A simple matter, with no risks attached.

“Truly thick-skinned.” Bailu Yi stared with disdain at those fourth-ranked Grandmasters. Not one of them dared to step forth to neutralize the formation and Eccentric Song still had to ‘explain’ their actions by spouting a load of bullshit. How laughable.

And more ludicrous than their reluctance to neutralize the formation was the fact that the bunch of old freaks were planning to gang up on a youngster by blasting fourth-ranked Inscriptions from afar.

With regards to Bailu Yi’s statement, the people concerned all chose to ignore it.

“Old Liang, this young pup killed your bodyguards, so if we want to kill him, Old Liang should be the one to do the honors.” The black-faced, middle-aged man looked at Old Liang, causing Old Liang to frown. The man continued, “I’ll get my Puppets to act as your protectors.”

He had refined several third-ranked Puppets, but his greatest wish was to refine fourth-ranked Puppets. Hence, the ancient scroll of the Ascendant was an opportunity for him.

“I will engrave a defensive formation to protect you,” Eccentric Song added. Old Liang’s eyes gleamed with an unknown emotion before he finally nodded in agreement.

From this, Qin Wentian understood that although many people came today, the only fourth-ranked Grandmasters other than Fenrir, were these three standing in front of him. Other than that, he couldn’t be sure if the other Heavenly Dipper Sovereign that was standing at the back was a fourth-ranked Divine Inscriptionist or not.

This Heavenly Dipper Sovereign and Fenrir were the strongest cultivators here. The behavior of Eccentric Song and the others seemed to indicate that they somewhat feared this other Heavenly Dipper Sovereign. Since the beginning, they hadn’t dared to ask him to do anything.

As for the others that came, they should all either be the disciples or bodyguards of Eccentric Song, Old Liang, and the black-faced, middle-aged man. Qin Wentian couldn’t be sure if there were still any hidden fourth-ranked Grandmasters within this group of people.

Old Liang warily advanced step by step, his sunken eyes boring into Qin Wentian. His countenance had a heaviness to it, he no longer dared to underestimate Qin Wentian.

Qin Wentian couldn’t help but laugh upon seeing how cautious everyone was. “I, Qin, will sit here and wait.”

After speaking, he really sat down crossed-legged as he closed his eyes, appearing as though anything that happened outside the formation no longer concerned him.

“This brat is really cunning, Old Liang, don’t be fooled by him.” The black-faced, middle-aged man summoned a Puppet to act as Old Liang’s protector, leading the way for him.

Old Liang released his perception to its maximum level as he stomped on the ground. With each and every step, the brilliant glow of runic imprints birthed into being. This fourth-ranked Grandmaster was starting to inscribe his Inscriptions.

Old Liang didn’t dare to advance, he ultimately chose to maintain a certain distance between him and Qin Wentian.

A period of time later, an overwhelming aura gushed forth from the Inscription that Old Liang was currently inscribing. As an experienced fourth-ranked Grandmaster, he only needed two hours to inscribe a flawless fourth-ranked Inscription.

An hour later, Qin Wentian was still leisurely closing his eyes in meditation. A sinister glint of light flashed past Old Liang’s eyes; this brat was waiting for death.

He didn’t bother glancing at Qin Wentian any longer and continued to concentrate on completing his Inscription. The overwhelming aura emanating forth from his Inscription grew increasingly more intense.

“Too slow,” Qin Wentian murmured. His palm slammed down onto the ground and instantaneously, the illusory form of a two-headed flood dragon explosively manifested into reality. With a roar of anger, the flood dragon transformed into a beam of light that shot towards Old Liang. The black-faced, middle-aged man coldly snorted, he had been surveying Qin Wentian and directed the Puppet he summoned to jump in front of Old Liang, intending to block the attack.

“BOOM!” Qin Wentian stomped the ground, materializing a countless number of arrows to fire at Old Liang, locking him down.

Old Liang snorted, such attacks were mere parlor tricks. He stomped on the ground as a shield appeared, formed from the glow of Divine Inscriptions. But the next instant, Old Liang only saw another demonic dragon, explosively flying his way. The two-headed flood dragon acted as its vanguard, driving the protector Puppet into retreat.

The demonic dragon slashed out with a scaly claw, causing Old Liang to retreat in agitation. Lacerating sounds rang out, signaling that the light shield had been torn into pieces.

“GET LOST!” The black-faced man roared when he saw Qin Wentian intent on slaying Old Liang. A terrifying shadow lance appeared in his hands as he dashed forwards, stabbing at the demonic dragon with it. The power contained within the shadow lance was beyond description. Another gigantic black dragon materialized, and a single claw slash was all it needed to dispel the manifestation of the demonic dragon.

Without a doubt, that lance was a fourth-ranked Divine Weapon.

As the last vestiges of the demonic dragon faded away, Old Liang’s countenance turned incomparably ashen. The effort he had put in earlier was all wasted when the Inscription process of the fourth-ranked Inscription was disrupted half-way. The runic outlines shimmered in and out of existence as the complex interweaving lines untangled and fell apart, vanishing into nothing. Qin Wentian’s objective had already been achieved.

“Everyone, stop wasting time, let’s join forces together and slay this unruly child.” The black-faced, middle-aged man brandished his shadow lance as he coldly commanded. With the intention of his will, the manifestation of that terrifying black dragon dashed out again, causing the deafening sounds of an explosion to ring out. The black dragon plowed through the numerous Divine Inscription ramparts that activated automatically when they felt an incoming force. The attack by the black-faced, middle-aged man had no way to breach Qin Wentian’s formation.

Qin Wentian spent a total of three days to set up this Grand Formation. Ever since Bailu Tong intercepted him back then, Qin Wentian’s intuition told him that troubles would soon follow. Indeed, as he expected, a party of fourth-ranked Grandmasters all swooped down like a bunch of vultures descending on their prey.

Old Liang’s eyes narrowed in anger when he heard the black-faced man’s words. He had just narrowly escaped death. Since the black-faced man already had such a plan, why hadn’t he suggested it in the beginning?

Eccentric Song stroked his beard as a sharp light flickered in his eyes. The other Heavenly Dipper Sovereign stood there silently, as though he were merely here to watch a play.

“What are your plans?” Eccentric Song directed the question to that Sovereign, his tone containing respect and a slight bit of fear. This man was the same as Fenrir; other than being a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign, he was a fourth-ranked Grandmaster as well.

“Depend on your own capabilities,” the old man casually commented, yet the tone of his words were filled with an unmistakable arrogance.

“Fine, we will depend on our own capabilities then.” Eccentric Song smiled as three Puppets appeared before him. One of the summoned Puppets was decked in battle armor, and its entire body was seemingly forged from Divine Weapons. Both its arms and legs were adorned with terrifying, wicked-looking blades and sickles, projecting an intense aura of extreme sharpness.

The sight of this caused Old Liang’s heart to tremble with desire. This old freak had lived for so many years, the quality of his treasures would naturally befit his experience. That single fourth-ranked Puppet he summoned was already a priceless treasure.

The black-faced, middle-aged man said nothing, but shadowy wisps of darkness could be seen encircling his shadow lance. Its aura of power couldn’t be belittled, it was a fourth-ranked Divine Weapon after all.

In their eyes, Qin Wentian was just a dancing clown that would die sooner or later. They were only wondering what would happen after Qin Wentian died. Who among them would obtain the ancient scroll? That was the real question. Hence, everyone had yet to go all out, as they had to preserve their strength for the real fight afterward.

However, what made them astonished was that ordinary methods couldn’t kill Qin Wentian. To kill him, they had no choice but to decisively use the most tyrannical method at their disposal.

Old Liang silently cursed, it seemed that his treasures were the most lacking out of the three of them.

“Is this the true strength of a fourth-ranked Grandmaster?” Qin Wentian mused. He appeared as casual and relaxed as before, with no hints of worry staining his countenance.

Bailu Yi’s heart couldn’t help but clench from the sight of this. Bailu You sidled up and whispered maliciously, “Do you seriously think that Qin Wentian has a chance? These are fourth-ranked Grandmasters we’re talking about.”

“Just wait and see.” Hints of stubbornness could be heard in Bailu Yi’s voice, as the sight of Qin Wentian’s serene expression bolstered her confidence.

Old Liang waved his hands as an umbrella appeared in his hands. After he had opened the umbrella, a golden radiance covered him as he pointed the tip of it towards Qin Wentian. He too began to advance in his direction.

“Chi, chi…” The shadow lance swept across space and an instant later, black-colored cracks trailed behind the tip of his lance. The surrounding ground all exploded into pieces as the black-faced, middle-aged man surveyed for hidden traps. His eyes flashed with a cold light, how could third-ranked Inscriptions, no matter how strong, resist an attack unleashed by his fourth-ranked Divine Weapon? Whether the traps were hidden or in plain sight, he would just adopt the most direct method, pure destruction.

Old Liang’s umbrella revolved in a continuous spiral, sending out golden light and scanning the ground for hidden traps as he cautiously moved forward step by step.

As for Eccentric Song, his fourth-ranked, bladed Puppet took the lead, raking the ground apart with each step. Moments later as he neared Qin Wentian, he looked upon him as though looking at a dead man.

“Brat, how do you wish to die?” Eccentric Song sneered. Qin Wentian’s only response was to stand up, as he softly asked, “You guys are so confident?”

“No matter how obscure your cloaking methods are, in front of absolute strength, they’re just ineffectual garbage,” the black-faced, middle-aged man icily stated, waving his lance as he continued advancing, His statement undoubtedly referred to his trail of destruction, made of the shattered earth he left in his path.

“Oh? Why don’t you take a look behind you?” Qin Wentian indifferently added. The black-faced, middle-aged man laughed condescendingly as he decided to humor Qin Wentian. However, he found himself instantly stiffening with disbelief the moment he turned his head back.

Silvery beams of light exploded forth from the ground, interweaving together into the complete outlines of a Divine Inscription. The earlier destroyed ground didn’t seem to have any effect on the activation of this Divine Inscription.

This Divine Inscription continually revolved on the ground, emanating silvery beams of light that shone brighter and brighter, eventually fusing together into a silver-colored tornado that instantly blotted out the sun.

“RUMBLE!” The speed of the revolution ravaged the entire space surrounding it. With one motion, Qin Wentian directed the massive tornado over, its wind force lifting the three other fourth-ranked Grandmasters and himself into the heart of the tempest. In the blink of an eye, the interior of the formation transformed into a silver-colored world.

The Grandmasters were thunderstruck, their bodies quaking as they stared at the young man standing in the air. A myriad of tumultuous emotions passed through them in that instant, striking deep within their souls.

“Still confident?” Qin Wentian’s tone held no hints of anger, merely a cold indifference, and yet it was enough to impress upon them this earth-shattering revelation, jolting their hearts with the truth.

This was the might of a fourth-ranked!

Chapter 284: Slaughter

Being fourth-ranked, the sword Qi tornado contained within it an overwhelming aura of destruction. This was clearly an aura that only fourth-ranked Inscriptions were capable of exuding.

Qin Wentian wasn’t a third-ranked Divine Inscriptionist but rather a fourth-ranked one instead.

A fourth-ranked Grandmaster before the age of twenty, the implications of this piece of news caused the hearts of all to palpitate madly.

No wonder this young man was so arrogant, no wonder Qin Wentian had humiliated them earlier, calling them a bunch of trash. How long have these people lived for? Yet they were still only at the level of fourth-ranked Grandmasters. How could their accomplishments even be compared to Qin Wentian?

If Qin Wentian started studying Divine Inscriptions when he was ten, then it had taken him less than ten years to reach the realm of a fourth-ranked. Meanwhile the three of them had studied Divine Inscriptions for at least forty to fifty years before they reached the same level. The gap between their talents was too far apart.

But rather than just being thunderstruck, the greed in their hearts almost made them go crazy. It must be because of that ancient scroll. Upon witnessing the intricacies of Qin Wentian’s formation, they were 100% sure that Qin Wentian’s current attainment was only because of a stroke of good fortune; acquiring the inheritance of a fifth-ranked Grandmaster.

How then could they not be in a frenzy for the inheritance of that Ascendant? They must definitely obtain it.

The degree of their fervor was so high that they even forgot the danger they were currently in. Even if they had to risk their lives, it would still be worth it for that scroll.

They must kill this brat and snatch the inheritance away from him.

Spectating at the side, the large-eyed elder’s heartbeat quickened as he witnessed the affair. He then shifted his glance onto Bailu Yi, “Did you already know? Was this why you said there’d be a good show?”

“Hehe, Elder Grandpa, what are your thoughts? Qin Wentian is only nineteen.” Bailu Yi smiled.

“Only nineteen.” The large-eyed elder drew in a deep breath, trying to steady himself. Even if they left his talent in cultivation aside, then based on his talent in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions, Qin Wentian was already a character to be reckoned with in the future. This young man definitely had the opportunity to break through to become a fifth-ranked Grandmaster.

Divine Inscriptionists were the same as cultivation experts. The higher one was, the more status one had. How could a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign be comparable to a Celestial Phenomenon Ascendant?

And a fifth-ranked Inscriptionist would definitely be able to summon the rains and hail the wind in Grand Xia. Even Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns would fight on his behalf with just a single sentence from him.

Qin Wentian didn’t just have a high level of attainment, his full potential wasn’t completely exhausted yet.

Yet Bailu Tong’s thinking was different. He naturally understood Qin Wentian had the talent and potential, but he firmly believed that the reason for Qin Wentian’s remarkable improvement was none other than the ancient scroll of the Ascendant.

“Everyone, why don’t we all take a step back?” the large-eyed elder frantically commented. At this moment, he no longer wanted the current situation to escalate. If Qin Wentian and the other fourth-ranked Grandmasters became serious, there would definitely be casualties suffered. Regardless of whether the casualty was Qin Wentian or the other fourth-ranked Inscriptionists, the large-eyed elder didn’t want to deal with the aftermath.

Qin Wentian stood in the middle of the air, as their surrounding space transformed into a sword Qi tornado.

This Divine Inscription was indeed a combat-type Inscription Qin Wentian had learnt from the ancient scroll of the Ascendant. It was known as ‘Tempest of Sword Qi’ and had the ability to split itself into several other miniature windstorms. This Inscription could be considered an extremely powerful combat-type Inscription within the fourth-ranked level. Even at Qin Wentian’s current level, he still had to spend a lot of time to inscribe it before he could succeed.

And right now, he was the controller of this tornado.

Within the tempest created by the roiling winds of the tornado, the three fourth-ranked Grandmasters were all extremely prudent of their situation, yet the stares directed at Qin Wentian were still filled with burning greed.

“Hey Elder, how could it be possible for us to stop now, even if you wished it?” The black-faced, middle-aged man coldly refuted. After which, he and Old Liang walked to the side of Eccentric Song.

“Eccentric Song, although this brat can set up a fourth-ranked formation, you have a fourth-ranked Puppet as well. The two of us will act as your protectors while you control your Puppet to kill him. With his death, this Divine Inscription will naturally fade away and at that time, his attack will be automatically dissipated. We will share the ancient scroll among the three of us, how about it?”

“Fine.” Old Song lightly nodded. With two peak-tier, third-ranked Puppets on the left and right and the fourth-ranked Puppets leading the way, the three Puppets exuded a cold murderous aura as they advanced towards Qin Wentian.

“Elder, you heard it yourself. I, Qin, from the beginning to the end have always been the passive party. Yet they are the ones that want my life.” Qin Wentian glanced at the large-eyed elder as he spoke, his words causing the gaze of that elder to stiffen. He also knew that it was impossible to make these fourth-ranked Grandmasters abandon the notion of killing Qin Wentian.

Leaving the matter of the ancient scroll aside, if Qin Wentian was left alive, the threat he posed to them would be too great.

After today, there would certainly be other great powers paying a visit to the White Deer Institute to recruit this young man.

A nineteen years old fourth-ranked Grandmaster, even transcendent powers would rush to recruit such a character, allowing him to research the Dao of Divine Inscriptions unconditionally as long as he was willing to join them.

So no matter which angle they considered this matter from, Qin Wentian must definitely die here.

“Great Elder, at this point, it’s already useless for persuasion,” Bailu Tong faintly stated, naturally hoping that the battle would continue.

“Eccentric Song, command your Puppet to kill the brat. Old Liang, use your Divine Weapon to defend against incoming attacks.”

The black-faced, middle-aged man instructed. He could already tell that the umbrella-type Divine Weapon of Old Liang was defensive in nature.

“Fine, this brat is running far too rampant, let’s destroy him.” Eccentric Song stroked his beard as he stated with confidence. After which, his fourth-ranked Puppet rose into the air, the blades on its body easily tearing apart the space. Even the terrifying gales gushing forth from the tornado were quickly sliced apart.

Below the Puppet, the black-faced, middle-aged man waved his lance about in an intricate dance, destroying the ground around him, simultaneously creating a vacuum that swept away all nearby traps. While at the same time, Old Liang opened his umbrella and floated above the three, encasing them in a golden sphere of protection.

Within the protective fourth-ranked sphere of light, they didn’t dare to rashly move about. They depended on the protection of the umbrella to stand against the intense gales, while planning to use the power of the fourth-ranked Puppet to slay Qin Wentian. This was undoubtedly an excellent plan.

“Die!” Qin Wentian flicked out a finger and instantly, the terrifying sword tornado spiraled towards them with increasing speed, targeting the umbrella-type Divine Weapon. The impact created during the collision caused the golden sphere of light to tremble madly. At the same time, the fourth-ranked Puppet blasted forth with its palm, as a terrifyingly cold light slashed towards Qin Wentian.

“Hmph.” Qin Wentian snorted coldly, “I will gladly accept this fourth-ranked Puppet offering then.”

As the sound of his voice faded, a golden-armored Puppet appeared in front of him.

“Go.” Qin Wentian coldly commanded, as his golden-armored Puppet flew towards the bladed Puppet. Qin Wentian’s countenance was as unperturbed as before, once again turning his terrifying gaze onto the three fourth-ranked Grandmasters.

“Puppet, he too has a fourth-ranked Puppet!”

The countenance of Eccentric Song and the rest froze. The fourth-ranked bladed Puppet was entangled by the golden-armored giant Puppet. Qin Wentian wasn’t affected in the slightest.

With a wave of his hands, millions upon millions of sword rays gathered, amalgamating into the form of a gigantic sword which was exuding an incomparable keenness. In the next moment, the gigantic sword descended from the domes of Heaven, smashing directly against the golden protective sphere of light that enshrouded the three of them.

“What should we do, what should we do?” Eccentric Song panicked. This nineteen years old young man had totally surpassed his expectations.

“Damn, f*ck this.” Old Liang’s countenance turned ashen. He turned to the black-faced, middled-aged man and stated, “With the power of his attacks, my protective golden sphere will be broken through sooner or later. You have an attack-type Divine Weapon, go and open a path for us.”

“You want me to open a path?” The black-faced, middle-aged man stiffened. Although he had a fourth-ranked, attack-type Divine Weapon, his personal cultivation base wasn’t at the Heavenly Dipper Realm. He was only at the Yuanfu level, how powerful would his attacks be even with the augmentation of the fourth-ranked Divine Weapon?

They had initially assumed that they would have the advantage even though Qin Wentian could set up a fourth-ranked formation. With the weapons they had at their disposal, a fourth-ranked Puppet and a fourth-ranked attack-type and defensive-type Divine Weapon, they would still be able to obtain victory. Yet who would have thought that Qin Wentian also possessed a fourth-ranked Puppet, instantly salvaging the situation with a single move.

“RUMBLE!” The golden sphere of light trembled again as cracks were beginning to show on its exterior.

“If this goes on, we will definitely die.” Old Liang turned pale. They wouldn’t even have a full corpse remaining in the face of that terrifying tempest.

“Grandmaster Penga, HELP US!” Eccentric Song turned his pleading gaze onto the other fourth-ranked Grandmaster who was also a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign. They were all extremely fearful of this man, and their initial plan was that after they killed Qin Wentian, they would join hands to deal with Penga.

But now, they had no choice but to beg Penga for his help.

However, Penga remained extremely indifferent. A long spear, with a flame-type Inscription engraved on it, appeared in his hands, yet he stood there motionless, staring at the Divine Inscription ahead with a fire burning in his eyes.

At this moment, the fourth-ranked ‘Tempest of the Sword Qi’ completely exploded. This would be the instance where it was easiest to see through the runic structure of a Divine Inscription.

Cracks appeared on the umbrella-type Divine Weapon, and as the sounds of splintering rang out, the golden sphere of light crumbled into pieces. At this moment, Eccentric Song, Old Liang, and the black-faced, middle-aged man all had expressions of dread on their faces as they stared at the young man standing in the air.

At that moment, as Qin Wentian’s cold gaze swept over, the three of them could clearly feel the intensity of his killing intent.

“Return.” Eccentric Song commanded his Puppet. However, how could Qin Wentian fail to anticipate his actions? His golden-armored Puppet was forcibly restraining Eccentric Song’s Puppet.

“Bzz.” The silhouette of the black-faced, middle-aged man flickered as he dashed out, using the shadow lance in his hands to open up a path. The manifestation of the black dragon howled, as a pathway was instantly slashed open for him. However, the shrill keen of angry swords resounded and as a thunderous boom echoed out, he was blocked by the gigantic sword impaled on the ground right in front of him. When the black-faced, middle-aged man lifted his head again, he only saw countless beams of sword light poised his way. As long as Qin Wentian willed it, his burial ground would be right there in that place.

“Little Brother Qin, please stay your hand.” At this moment, the large-eyed elder was extremely polite. A nineteen years old fourth-ranked Grandmaster, he naturally had to show his respect.

“The three of them are all extremely famous, this man is a guest elder of the Han Clan in the Moon Continent. The magnitude of the Han Clan’s power isn’t weak,” the large-eyed elder gently reminded Qin Wentian.

“That’s right, if you kill me, the Han Clan will definitely not spare you.” The black-faced, middle-aged man glared at Qin Wentian.

“How mighty were you acting earlier? Yet how pathetic are you now? If the Han Clan wishes to take revenge for you, I will immediately join a transcendent power. Do you believe that the Han Clan would still dare to touch me then?” Qin Wentian’s stare penetrated the eyes of the black-faced, middle-aged man, the coldness in his voice gave him the shivers. A nineteen years old fourth-ranked Grandmaster, as long as this news was circulated, there would be countless powers wanting to pull Qin Wentian within their ranks. What use would the Han Clan be then?

“So many treasures here, but they’re all wasted on idiots. Why not give them to me?” As the sound of Qin Wentian’s voice faded, a domineering sword Qi gushed forth, and the gigantic sword sprang up and slashed downwards. The shadow lance of the black-faced, middle-aged man blocked the attack, but his legs were shattered from the impact. An instant later, a beam of sword light flashed past from the side, leaving a bloody gash on his throat.

Eccentric Song and Old Liang were truly afraid when they saw how decisively Qin Wentian had acted. At this moment, there was only unending terror in their hearts.

Without warning, Qin Wentian had slaughtered the black-face, middle-aged man, a guest elder of the Han Clan. Within moments, a fourth-ranked Grandmaster had fallen just like that!